If you are a Netflix subscriber who pays for your membership through Apple’s App Store, you may need to change your payment method soon. Netflix has stopped accepting new or rejoining customers who want to pay via the App Store, and some existing customers may also be affected by this change.
In this article, we will explain why Netflix made this decision, what it means for you, and how you can manage your Netflix billing.
Changes to Netflix Billing Through Apple
Netflix has been gradually moving away from accepting payments through Apple’s App Store since 2018 when it stopped allowing new or returning customers to sign up for its service via the App Store. Now, Netflix has taken another step in this direction by stopping the option to restore or restart a subscription via the App Store for those who have previously paid through this method.
This means that if you are a new or rejoining Netflix customer, you will not be able to pay for your subscription through the App Store. You will have to choose another payment method, such as a credit card, debit card, PayPal, or Netflix gift card.
If you are an existing Netflix customer who pays through the App Store, you may also be affected by this change. Netflix will prompt you to update your payment information and switch to another method when your current billing period ends. If you do not update your payment information, your Netflix subscription will be canceled.
Reasons Behind the Change
Why did Netflix decide to stop accepting payments through the App Store? There are two main reasons:
- Netflix wants to have more control over its customer relationships and reduce its dependence on Apple’s platform and payment processing. By directing customers to its own website or app, Netflix can offer more features, promotions, and personalized recommendations to its subscribers.
- Netflix wants to avoid paying fees to Apple for using its platform and payment processing. Apple charges a 30% commission for the first year of a subscription and 15% for subsequent years. This means that Netflix has to share a significant portion of its revenue with Apple, which affects its profitability and growth.
How to Manage Netflix Billing?
If you are a Netflix subscriber who pays through the App Store, you may be wondering how you can manage your Netflix billing after this change. Here are some options:
Updating Your Payment Information
You can update your payment information on Netflix’s website or app by following the instructions here. You will need to choose a different payment method, such as a credit card, debit card, PayPal, or Netflix gift card. You will also need to cancel your Apple-billed membership on your iOS device by following the instructions here.
Canceling Your Apple-billed Membership
If you do not want to continue your Netflix subscription, you can cancel your Apple-billed membership on your iOS device by following the instructions here. You will not be charged for the next billing period, and you will still have access to Netflix until your current billing period ends.
Exploring Alternate Payment Methods
If you are looking for other ways to pay for your Netflix subscription, you can explore the alternate payment methods that Netflix offers in your country. You can find out more about the available payment methods here. Some of the alternate payment methods include:
- Credit and debit cards: You can use Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover cards to pay for your Netflix subscription. You can also use prepaid cards or gift cards from these brands, as long as they are enabled for online and international purchases.
- PayPal: You can use PayPal to pay for your Netflix subscription in many countries. You will need to have a PayPal account and a valid payment method linked to it, such as a bank account, credit card, or debit card.
- Netflix gift cards: You can use Netflix gift cards to pay for your Netflix subscription or give them as gifts to others. You can buy Netflix gift cards from various retailers or online platforms, depending on your country. You can find out more about Netflix gift cards here.
