In the past, Apple has always required streaming platforms available in the App Store to provide a way for users to subscribe directly through the app using in-app purchases. But since it’s no longer required, many platforms are ditching Apple’s in-app purchases, and Disney is about to do just that.
Disney+ and Hulu eliminate Apple’s in-app purchases
As many Reddit users pointed out over the weekend, Disney removed the option to subscribe to both Disney+ and Hulu through their respective iOS apps. From now on, new users will be directed to create an account via an external website.
This news was confirmed by Disney themselves on their website (via mcroomers), new users (or those wanting to restart their subscription) are no longer able to sign up for or pay for Disney+ through the app available on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. Added section to notify.
At this time, Disney says customers who already subscribe to Disney+ or Hulu through in-app purchases on iOS are not affected and do not need to select a new payment method. New subscribers must create an account by visiting disneyplus.com/next.
Disney follows other streaming platforms such as Netflix and Spotify, which also removed Apple’s in-app purchases. In 2022, Apple changed its App Store policies to allow “reader” apps to redirect users to external websites to complete purchases. This exception is only valid for apps that provide digital content, such as books, audio, or video, as their primary functionality.
Naturally, these platforms chose to do so to avoid paying Apple 15-30% fees. Despite no longer paying App Store fees, Disney+ and Hulu have no intention of passing the difference on to customers. In August, Disney announced price increases for both Hulu and Disney+ subscriptions.
Disney CEO Bob Iger said in April that the goal is to turn streaming into a “growth business” by reducing “customer acquisition costs” and lowering marketing costs. This move is not surprising.
Disney benefited from Apple’s special program for streaming platforms
While Disney appears to be unhappy with App Store fees, an Apple spokesperson emphasized: 9to5 mac The App Store helps Disney reach more people with its apps, which include games and utilities for its theme parks.
Disney+ and Hulu also benefited from Apple’s Video Partner Program. The program not only allows streaming platforms to more effectively promote their content through Universal Search and Siri, but also reduces App Store fees from 30% to 15%.
Apple says the App Store’s in-app purchase system remains the best way to get users to buy digital goods and services because it can manage transactions in many countries and currencies and has its own anti-fraud mechanisms. It is claimed that there is.
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