Apps with subscriptions must clearly show prices, billing periods, and how to cancel, and must provide an in-app cancellation option so users are not trapped in unwanted subscriptions.
This analysis describes what Apple's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This provision establishes operational requirements for app developers participating in Apple's subscription ecosystem, creating standardized disclosure and cancellation mechanics across the platform. It functions as a compliance threshold that app developers must satisfy to maintain subscription offerings on the App Store.
The updated guidelines state that developers must ensure kids receive age-appropriate experiences within their apps and must remove user-generated content that violates the guidelines, terms of service, or community standards. Under the revised policy, if Apple identifies policy-violating content, the developer will be asked to remove it and provide a compliance improvement plan. Based on the developer's response, the app may be removed from the App Store until compliance is demonstrated. This establishes a formal escalation pathway where developer inaction or inadequate remediation can result in app suspension or removal.
View change record →Removal of this provision eliminates explicit requirements for subscription transparency and in-app cancellation management.
View full change record →Consumers must be clearly shown subscription prices and billing terms before being charged, and must have an accessible in-app way to cancel, reducing the risk of unexpected subscription charges on their credit card or iTunes account.
How other platforms handle this
You may cancel your Subscription at any time. Your cancellation will take effect at the end of the current Subscription Term.
You cannot cancel an order that includes a delivery of digital content that is not delivered on a physical medium if order processing has begun with your express, prior consent and acknowledgment that you thereby waive your right of cancellation.
If you have paid Subscription Fees upfront, you will be issued a pro-rata refund based on the portion of the Subscription Period remaining.
"Apps offering auto-renewing subscriptions must clearly describe what the customer will be charged, the duration of the subscription, and the upgrade/downgrade options available. Apps must give customers the ability to manage and cancel their subscriptions from within the app. Apps must not misrepresent the nature or purpose of their subscriptions.Excerpt from Apple's App Store Review Guidelines
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK: This provision implements FTC guidelines on negative option marketing (16 C.F.R.
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This provision establishes operational requirements for app developers participating in Apple's subscription ecosystem, creating standardized disclosure and cancellation mechanics across the platform. It functions as a compliance threshold that app developers must satisfy to maintain subscription offerings on the App Store.
Consumers must be clearly shown subscription prices and billing terms before being charged, and must have an accessible in-app way to cancel, reducing the risk of unexpected subscription charges on their credit card or iTunes account.
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 179 platforms. See the full comparison.
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