For years, iPhone and iPad users could not take out a Netflix subscription in the app of the same name. Although this is still not possible directly, the latest measure allows the streaming provider to at least set a link to the subscription booking.
A brief summary of the situation: Apple earns money with every subscription in the App Store – up to 30 percent commission is withheld. Netflix didn’t see this and removed the option years ago. New customers were therefore forced to subscribe directly to Netflix on the website, however, the streaming service was not allowed to advertise or specifically link this directly in its own app.
Netflix app breaks Apple’s chains
This is now changing. This was preceded by a court decision against Apple. So-called “reader apps” must therefore be allowed to refer to the external subscription together with a link in the iPhone and iPad app. This is exactly what is now possible within the Netflix app (Sources: 9to5Mac and The Verge).
Current blockbuster and most expensive film from Netflix:
But before potential customers click on the link, they still have to read numerous warnings from Apple. Users should know that Apple is not responsible for payment processing in this case and also assumes no responsibility for data protection or the security of transactions. If the corresponding dialog is aborted, you can log in directly with an existing Netflix ID. Otherwise it goes out of the app to Netflix. You create an account there and can then log into the app accordingly.
In principle, the decision is to be welcomed, as Apple users do Finally the choice again and can, if not directly, but somehow create a Netflix account in the app. A central subscription management via Apple is then not possible, as the registration was external.
Insider tip: Netflix subscription directly via game apps
What many do not know: There was and is a trick how to get a Netflix subscription directly within the app. To do this, you don’t download the Netflix app itself, but first download one of the Netflix games from Apple’s App Store. Within this Netflix still offers the option to take out a subscription. You can only choose the normal HD subscription for just under 13 euros, no SD or 4K subscription. If you decide to go this route, the Netflix account is managed directly by Apple. The monthly amount can also be paid with Apple voucher cards. Should they be available again at a reduced price, you can even save money on Netflix.