Subscription-based apps are thriving in 2025, but not every platform offers the same experience. RevenueCat’s latest report shows that Google Play users run into billing errors almost twice as often as iOS users, and that discrepancy is costing both users and developers.
According to the report, 28.2% of all canceled subscriptions on Google Play are attributed to billing errors. That’s almost double the App Store’s rate of 15.1%. This means that if you’re a Google Play user, you’re nearly twice as likely to have your subscription canceled because of a payment issue. While voluntary unsubscribing is still the number one reason for cancellations on both platforms, billing errors are a close second for Google Play.
For users, this goes beyond being a minor hassle. They might lose access to an app or service they’ve already paid for, or waste time fixing a problem that shouldn’t happen.
RevenueCat’s data also points to other important trends in the subscription app market. Churn is still a big challenge, especially at the start. Nearly 30% of annual subscribers cancel in the first month, showing that people quickly decide if an app is worth the cost. On the other hand, users who stick around are more likely to stay: apps with affordable annual plans keep about 36% of users after a year, while pricier monthly subscriptions only keep about 6.7%.
Another key finding is that most free trials begin right after installation, with 82% starting on the first day. This means that if an app doesn’t highlight its premium features or offer a trial right away, it may miss its best chance to win over new users.
Apple still rules in turning downloads into paying users
Apple continues to lead in turning downloads into paying users. The App Store regularly outperforms Google Play in key areas like business, health and fitness, and education. Android developers face not only lower conversion rates but also a greater risk of billing problems that can interrupt subscriptions.
RevenueCat also found that refunds remain relatively rare but vary by category. Apps in the health, fitness, and education spaces report the highest refund rates — sometimes reaching up to 4.9% — mostly when the app experience fails to meet expectations set in marketing or onboarding.
RevenueCat’s 2025 report is based on data from tens of thousands of apps and billions of subscription transactions. Its findings make it clear that as subscription apps keep growing, the platform you use can really affect your experience. At the moment, Google Play’s billing problems are holding the ecosystem back.
