Apple Introduces Flexible Monthly App Subscriptions on the App Store with iOS 26.5 Beta 4 Update

Earlier today, Apple released the iOS 26.5 public beta 4 and developer beta 4 updates, which have introduced a new way for users and developers to handle in-app purchases and subscription payments. Currently in testing, auto-renewable subscriptions in the App Store will soon support smaller monthly payments for a set duration.

iOS 26.5 Beta 4 Introduces App Store Monthly Subscriptions with 12-Month Commitment

Apple is letting developers introduce a new flexible payment method with iOS 26.5, wherein iOS 26-supported devices will be able to now show a month-by-month payment cycle instead of a one-time per year payment. It will allow users to choose either an auto-debit billing plan or a discounted yearly payment.

This is technically not a monthly plan, as in that case, users will be able to opt for a single month and then cancel their subscription. However, with Apple's model, users are tied to a 12-month committed payment plan, which is paid on a monthly basis.

iOS 26.5 Beta 4 monthly app subscription plan introduced — Image Credit: Apple Developer

As it is evident from the above image, the new flexible payment plan clearly states the 12-month commitment duration and it makes it clear that even if users decide to cancel early, they will be billed till the end of the 12-month duration.

In some cases, failure to make payments will also lead to the discontinuation of the service. It is unclear how early closure of payment will affect the transaction. However, we believe that if a user attempts to stop payment, the monthly instalment amount will be automatically charged to the Apple Account and debited via the saved payment method.

Moreover, Apple says that "to provide transparency, people can easily view the number of completed and remaining payments for the subscription in their Apple Account". Users will also be notified of upcoming or delayed payments via email and push notifications.

That said, App Store monthly subscriptions with 12-month commitment plans are currently under testing. Developers are urged to configure them in App Store Connect and test them in Xcode. It will roll out in May 2026 for iOS 26.4 and later globally. However, in the initial rollout phase, the USA and Singapore will be excluded from monthly flexible payments.