The longstanding battle over Apple’s 30% cut on in-app purchases continues to stir significant controversy. Tech giants are actively seeking ways to bypass this fee.
Excessive Fees Spark Backlash
Like many companies that offer online services and subscriptions, Disney has recently removed the option to pay for Disney+ or Hulu through the App Store. Thanks to new app store regulations in the USA and Europe, this move allows Disney to sidestep the App Store entirely and directly use its website through an embedded link!
By doing this, Disney will no longer pay the so-called Apple tax and will be categorized as a reading app. In a related development, Netflix also discontinued support for integrated payments in February 2024. It’s worth noting that Disney’s decision to stop supporting in-app purchases correlates with the price increases that took effect on October 17.
How Does It Work?
As a reminder, Apple collects a commission on in-app purchases such as paid apps, subscriptions, or additional features/packs. This fee can range from 15 to 30% of the total amount, a cost that is passed on directly or indirectly to the consumer.
The change was discussed in several Reddit posts over the weekend, and the Disney+ and Hulu websites have now been updated. In practice, new subscribers can no longer pay for their subscriptions through Apple, nor can they sign up for either of the services. However, existing subscribers who are billed through Apple will not be affected, according to the Disney+ and Hulu websites. For all others, users can still enjoy their Disney+ and Hulu content on iOS by logging into their respective apps.