Subscription apps must show the length, price, and content of the subscription before the user pays, and must let the subscription be managed/cancelled through standard iOS subscription management.
Why apps actually get flagged
A frequent cause is a paywall screen that doesn't clearly state the auto-renewal terms or price up front, relying on fine print instead.
A real example
"Your app's auto-renewable subscription content was not clearly presented to the user prior to purchase, per guideline 3.1.2."
The short version, in more detail
Subscriptions get a lot of scrutiny because they involve recurring charges. Guideline 3.1.2 expects clear disclosure of what the user pays and when, a proper way to restore and manage the subscription, and a purchase screen that is honest about trials and renewals. Most rejections come from presentation issues, not from the idea of subscribing.
What this guideline covers
How subscription price, period and renewal terms are shown to the user before purchase.
Honest presentation of free trials and introductory offers.
Requirements around restoring purchases and linking to subscription management.
Links to terms and privacy information on the purchase screen and in the listing.
Whether the subscription actually delivers what the description promises.
What usually triggers this rejection
The price, billing period or renewal terms are missing, small or hard to see on the purchase screen.
A free trial is advertised without clearly stating what will be charged afterwards and when.
The billed amount is less prominent than a promotional "per week" or "per day" figure that implies a lower cost.
There is no Restore Purchases option.
Links to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy are missing on the purchase screen or in the listing.
Cancellation or management is hard to find or described misleadingly.
How reviewers evaluate it
Reviewers go through the paywall and read the price, period and trial wording.
They check the hierarchy of information, since the billed amount is expected to be the most prominent price.
They look for restore and management options and for terms and privacy links.
They compare the description of what is unlocked with what is actually available.
Common misunderstandings
The problem is rarely the subscription model itself. It is usually how the offer is presented.
A tiny disclosure in fine print is not treated the same as a clear one.
Offering a trial is not required, but if offered it has to be described honestly.
Common questions
Why is the billed amount treated as the main price?
Apple wants users to understand what will actually be charged, so smaller breakdowns such as a weekly equivalent must not overshadow it.
Where can users cancel a subscription?
Through their Apple ID subscription settings on the device, which apps are expected to point to.
Do these rules apply to introductory offers too?
Yes. Any discounted or free period is expected to be described clearly, including what happens when it ends.
Platform rules change often. This page is a plain-language explanation written by AppReviewFix, not official guidance. Check the current App Store Review Guidelines for the exact wording.
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