In a surprising turn of events, Disney+ and Hulu have announced that they will no longer allow users to sign up for their services through Apple devices. This decision is a significant shift in strategy for the two streaming giants and signals a potential shake-up in the streaming industry.
The move comes as Apple has faced increased scrutiny over its App Store policies, particularly regarding the 30% commission it takes on all in-app purchases and subscriptions. Both Disney+ and Hulu have chosen to bypass this fee by directing users to sign up for their services through their respective websites rather than through Apple’s in-app purchase system.
This decision has the potential to impact a significant number of users who prefer the convenience of signing up for streaming services through the App Store. By forcing users to sign up through their websites, Disney+ and Hulu are aiming to not only avoid Apple’s fees but also to establish a more direct relationship with their customers.
While this move may initially cause some inconvenience for Apple users, it also highlights the growing tension between tech giants and content providers in the ever-evolving streaming landscape. As streaming services continue to proliferate and compete for subscribers, companies are looking for ways to maximize revenue and reduce dependency on third-party platforms.
It will be interesting to see how this decision plays out in the long run and whether other streaming services will follow suit in an effort to gain more control over their subscription models. In the meantime, Apple users who wish to subscribe to Disney+ or Hulu will need to do so through the services’ websites, marking a notable shift in the streaming industry’s dynamics.