Official Source· Apple Developer· Published Nov 4, 2026

Apple launches subscription retention messages in cancellation flow

Apple announced on November 4, 2026, that subscription retention messages are now available. Developers can configure messages, subscriber eligibility, and wait times in App Store Connect, or request access to the Retention Messaging API to select messages based on subscription details.

Apple launches subscription retention messages in cancellation flow

Full Report

Apple announced on November 4, 2026, that retention messages for subscriptions are now available. The messages appear in the cancellation flow as subscribers consider canceling, reminding them of a subscription’s value. A message can include text, images, or a special offer.

Developers can configure retention messages for auto-renewable subscriptions in App Store Connect, including which subscribers are eligible and how long to wait between messages. The Retention Messaging API offers another route: it lets developers choose a message for each subscriber based on that person’s subscription details. Apple says API access is available by request.

Apple’s WWDC26 App Store guide had described retention messaging as a feature planned for the fall. The new announcement confirms its availability and outlines the two configuration paths, giving developers options for presenting subscription information or offers at the point when a subscriber considers canceling.

Why This Matters

The feature gives developers a way to put subscription information or an offer directly into the cancellation flow. Eligibility rules, message timing, and API-based selection give developers specific controls over what eligible subscribers see.

Now available: Retention messages for subscriptions
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Primary Evidence

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  • OfficialApple DeveloperDocumentOriginal

    Now available: Retention messages for subscriptions

    “Reduce cancellations with retention messages that remind subscribers of your subscription's value as they decide whether to cancel. Retention messages appear in the cancellation flow and can include text, images, or a special offer.…”

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