Why You Can’t Subscribe to Disney Plus or Hulu on the Apple App Store

Streaming services are making a shift away from Apple’s in-app billing system, with recent reports highlighting Disney+ and Hulu as the latest platforms to take this route. Apple had previously mandated that streaming apps on its store must offer users the option to subscribe directly within the app. However, a recent update revealed that popular streaming services like Disney+ and Hulu are now redirecting users to their websites for subscriptions, bypassing the in-app billing process. Users have reported on platforms like Reddit that they can no longer sign up for subscriptions through the apps.

Disney clarified that existing subscribers who currently pay for Disney+ or Hulu through in-app purchases on iOS will not experience any disruptions and can continue using this payment method. However, new subscribers are required to visit the service’s website to set up their accounts. This move aligns with other industry giants like Netflix and Spotify, who have also opted to circumvent Apple’s in-app billing to avoid the substantial commission fees of 15-30% charged by Apple for subscriptions made through the app.

While the inconvenience of creating an account outside the app may deter some users, the content offerings on Disney+ and Hulu remain compelling. Exciting releases such as "Daredevil: Born Again" and "Star Wars: Skeleton Crew" featuring Jude Law are generating buzz among subscribers. Hulu has also introduced highly acclaimed shows like "Rivals," which boasts a remarkable 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, along with hits like "The Bear" and "Only Murders in the Building."

Despite the inconvenience of not being able to sign up through the App Store, the appeal of the content on Disney+ and Hulu is expected to continue attracting subscribers. Hulu’s recent crackdown on password sharing and Disney’s introduction of the "Extra Member" feature demonstrate the platforms’ efforts to enhance user experience and security. While the shift away from Apple’s in-app billing may require users to take an additional step in the subscription process, the quality and variety of content offered by these streaming services are likely to keep audiences engaged and subscribing.

In conclusion, the decision by Disney+ and Hulu to move away from Apple’s in-app billing system may present initial challenges for users, but the allure of their content libraries is anticipated to maintain subscriber interest and engagement.