I remember buying something a few years ago for this game on my iOS device, something like a permanent subscription that let me get above a certain rank, is this different than the new request for a subscription on my new android phone?

Zup did away with life time subs and you have to subscribe by the month now if you want to choose which server you want to play on.

DO NOT use a google play card. For some reason or another you cant purchase it that way.

Thanks guys, see you in the skies