Having a billing issue with an app subscription is a big hassle among Apple users. Aside from not having to use the app's services due to a failed payment, users will need to access their Apple IDs first to settle the billing. Now, the Cupertino tech giant has decided to remove this big inconvenience by allowing app users to resolve their payments while staying on the app. The latest update will be implemented beginning this summer.
In-App Payment Settlement Offers Convenience to Apple Users and Developers Alike
Apple announced through its developer website that it will change the current system for in-app subscriptions on iPhone and iPad devices. The current system requires app users to fix their subscription payment failures by going to the Apple ID settings. Many users think that this setup can be time-consuming and confusing at times since they will have to enter their account details again outside the app.
Starting this summer, users can resolve billing issues directly in-app when the latest payment fails to clear. As per 9to5Mac, the update will display a message prompt in the app where the billing issue is encountered. It will say that the user needs to update their payment method to continue using the app. Because the subscription was made using Apple ID, the user will have to input their Apple ID details but this time, there is no need to go to device settings.
9to5Mac also noted that Apple's updated policy on resolving billing problems will also benefit the app developers. The other good news for developers is that they are not required to do anything to apply the change to their apps. The change will already be included in the StoreKit framework with iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4.
Developers are instructed to visit Apple's website to know more about testing the feature on Sandbox.
Related Article: Apple Has Unsigned iOS 16.3.1 to Avoid User Downgrade
How the Updated Policy Will Work to Resolve Failed App Payments
As per Apple Insider, one reason that makes the current system for resolving billing issues difficult for both users and developers is that the users must first request the developers to regain access to their apps. This is the point of having to go to the Apple ID settings to settle the payment issue between the app user and developer. When the updated Apple policy is applied this summer to all iPhone and iPad devices, the issue can be settled on the app itself.
Users have the option to enable their app subscriptions to auto-update. They can access the app as long as the subscription is not cancelled manually in the App Store. Access will be denied, however, if the latest automatic payment is declined.
"There is a problem with your current payment method. To avoid interruptions to your subscriptions and purchases, update your payment method" is what the message prompt will read when a billing issue is encountered. Users can choose to continue their subscription by tapping "Continue" to try the payment once again.
They can also enter another mode of payment by choosing "Add Payment Method." Lastly, the users can simply exit the prompt by tapping "X." Take note that this feature will only work with at least iOS 16.4 and iPadOS 16.4 versions.
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