Apple has always maintained a very strict policy regarding allowing users to subscribe to different platforms through apps in the App Store, forcing them to join the company’s integrated system.
However, this has recently been relaxed. So much so that Netflix now lets its app users manage subscriptions externally — something that wasn’t previously possible under Apple’s terms.
The Netflix app for iOS recently received a new update, which allows users to be redirected to a subscription page on Apple’s external platform. That is, users can now directly access the Netflix website to purchase a streaming plan, without having to go directly through Apple’s payment system.
This action will allow Netflix to circumvent the 30% fee on payments made through the Apple system – although there will still be fees to allow payments from third-party sources, albeit lower.
Note, however, that this feature is only available for new subscriptions on the platform. The platform still does not allow service users to make in-app payments through the app on iOS – this functionality was removed in 2018.
George Orwell is a writer and contributor covering politics, society, culture, and current affairs. His work focuses on providing clear analysis and thoughtful commentary on the issues shaping modern Britain and the wider world, helping readers better understand complex topics.
