Netflix has phased out its legacy in-app subscription option for users who signed up through the iPhone app, directing them to renew their subscriptions through the Netflix website. This move marks the end of an era for those clinging to their original plans, as Netflix had already ceased offering in-app subscriptions in 2018 to bypass Apple's hefty 30% commission fee on in-app purchases, which drops to 15% after a year.
A recent report by The Verge highlights that Netflix has discontinued support for these grandfathered in-app payment accounts. Although new subscribers have been unable to use this payment method since its discontinuation in 2018, existing users had been able to maintain their subscriptions via their Apple payment method until now.
Subscribers found themselves unexpectedly locked out of their Netflix accounts, with the app requesting payment details upon launch, often without prior explanation. While Netflix may have notified some affected users via email, such notifications can easily be overlooked. Now, those impacted have no choice but to subscribe through the Netflix website or cease using the service.
Previously, users with the old payment method enjoyed the benefit of paying the legacy price of $9.99 for ad-free viewing. They now face the decision of subscribing to newer pricing tiers, which include $6.99 for ad-supported content, $15.49 for HD ad-free viewing, or $22.99 for the premium 4K option.
This adjustment has initially impacted subscribers in select countries, including the United States and Canada, with no official word from Netflix on when the change will be implemented globally or in other regions.
In recent years, Netflix has taken a more assertive stance in its business operations, implementing policies to curb password sharing, increasing subscription prices on multiple occasions, and maintaining higher rates than other services that offer 4K streaming content.
