New Disney+ or Hulu subscribers will no longer be able to sign up through Apple’s App Store. Both platforms are Disney-owned platforms and were announced through an update to the Help Center. Instead, individuals are encouraged to visit the browser site and sign up directly. The reason is obvious. Apple imposes a 30% discount on purchases made through iOS apps, slashing profits for developers (and big companies like Disney).
Existing customers can still manage their subscriptions through Apple, but Hulu says, “If you don’t want to be billed by Apple, you’ll need to subscribe directly through Hulu.” I’m not trying to plant ideas in your head. However, you will need to cancel your subscription and sign up again. Hulu also limited its subscribers to two options for billing Apple. Hulu is available with ads or without ads. Live TV and add-ons must be obtained from the website.
The move comes as Disney+ and Hulu raise prices. Announced in August, these changes brought the ad-supported Disney+ Basic and Hulu plans from $8 to $10 per month, and the ad-free Disney+ Premium plan from $14 to $16 per month. Ad-free Hulu went from $18 to $20 a month.
It’s unlikely that Apple is thrilled with Disney’s decision. This 30% cut, and Apple’s determination to keep it that way, led to a series of lawsuits over the years, with companies like Epic and Spotify claiming that Apple blocked third-party purchases and app stores.
