8.5 · Important
Policy · Apple Developer News · AI: DeepSeek 8.5 ✓
Apple launched retention messages in App Store Connect that appear in the cancellation flow and can include text, images, or a special offer to reduce churn. Developers can configure subscriber eligibility and wait times between offers, and request access to the Retention Messaging API to tailor messages per subscriber.
What this means for indie developers：Indie developers should set up retention offers in App Store Connect now, since this is a free, first-party lever that directly affects subscription revenue retention.
8.5 · Important
Policy · Apple Developer News · AI: DeepSeek 8.5 ✓
Starting November 16, 2026, App Store Connect's age rating questionnaire will add two new content descriptors: Shared Location and Dating and Relationships, which developers must declare when submitting updates or changing age ratings. All apps must complete these declarations by January 12, 2027; apps with dating features get a minimum 18+ rating, while Brazil requires A16 for Shared Location and A18 for Dating and Relationships, with an option to request an official rating from Brazil's Ministry of Justice.
What this means for indie developers：Apps with location sharing or social/companion features should update their age rating declarations soon to avoid blocked submissions and rating issues, especially in Brazil.