[SanchoPanda]

The issue here is that Apple has given away an item in the hopes of getting you to subscribe later, but is relying on users making a mistake or forgetting to cancel as opposed to choosing to subscribe. The wording is a bit strong as well, but that's not such a big deal. I would absolutely call this a dark pattern.

[glofish]

I will disagree here, a dark pattern is a design that tricks you into doing something you did not want to do.

You have no evidence to support that most users would not prefer the current arrangement where they don't have to come back and resubscribe upon expiration.

Staying subscribed is most likely the most desired outcome for most users. Hardly a dark pattern just because someone wanted to maximize their free time.

Note what the complaint is, that they lose access to the free product ... kind of ridiculous the more you think about it....