Netflix has started redirecting users on iPhone and iPad to an external web page where they can sign up for the service. As first reported by 9to5Mac. Change comes only months later Apple begins allowing “reader” apps Providing access to digital content such as Netflix and Spotify, linking to account registration pages on their websites.
until 2018Netflix didn’t provide an external sign-up link on its iPhone and iPad apps, and didn’t even tell users where to sign up. Users had to go to Netflix’s website from their web or mobile browser to sign up for the service. before access the application. This was done to comply with Apple guidelines that make it difficult for apps to exceed their up to 30 percent commission on in-app purchases and prevent developers from providing a link to an external registration page. The setup made it confusing for new users who (logically) thought they could sign up for Netflix using the app.
But now, that seems to be changing – 9to5Mac iPhone and iPad users are now reporting that they see an external link in the Netflix app that they can use to sign up for the service, and BoundaryRichard Lawler noticed the same thing. Users who tap the link will see a message warning they are “about to exit the app” and go to an external website. It also notes that any action on the external page is not affiliated with Apple:
All accounts or purchases made outside of this app will be managed by the “Netflix” developer. Your App Store account, your stored payment methods and related features such as subscription management and refund requests will not be available. Apple is not responsible for the privacy or security of transactions with this developer.
Tapping the alert takes users to an account registration page on the Netflix website where they can enter payment information and choose a subscription plan. It’s unclear when Netflix started promoting this new option, and the company didn’t immediately respond to it. Boundarycomment request. At the moment, Netflix’s support page it still states that users cannot access Netflix’s sign-up page from the iPhone or iPad app.
While Apple has begun to loosen its policies for reader apps, it’s still strict set of rules rules that developers must follow, such as not adding any pricing information with links to external registration pages. Developers also need to submit an “authorization” to get permission to add external links to their apps.
Apple has come under criticism for its policies that force most developers to use Apple’s App Store billing system. usage fees and commission. In response to a new law passed in South Korea, Apple begins allowing developers to use third-party payment processors in apps released in the country. also did Some changes for dating apps published in the Netherlands after a long battle with the country’s regulator.
However, Apple EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) legislation passedas it will be Forcing Apple to allow the use of third-party payment systems, sideloading and third-party app stores. Google has already started preparing for new laws give developers the option to use an alternative billing system For applications deployed in Europe.
Update July 23, 12:42 PM ET: Added confirmation that external link is available in Netflix app.
