In a recent update, Disney Plus and Hulu have removed the option for users to subscribe via their iPhone apps.
According to support documents, new and returning subscribers can no longer sign up through Apple, as first reported by MacRumors.
When attempting to log into the Disney Plus iOS app, users are now greeted with a message directing them to complete their account setup on the Disney Plus website. Hulu’s app also redirects users without active subscriptions to its website.
This move seems to be aimed at avoiding Apple’s commission on new subscription revenue. However, those who are already subscribed through Apple will continue to be billed via Apple.
Disney’s decision mirrors steps taken by other companies, including Netflix and Spotify. Netflix removed its in-app subscription option in 2018 and recently stopped Apple billing for legacy subscribers. Likewise, Spotify has long acknowledged the inconvenience of its lack of iOS in-app subscription options with a tongue-in-cheek message in its app.
Disney has yet to comment on the changes.
