Jul 25, 2022 17:00:00

Netflix reports that it has begun embedding links to 'external membership sites' in iOS apps

Netflix, a video distribution service, has set up a link to guide users to the 'external membership registration site' in the iOS application distributed on the App Store so that subscriptions can be charged without using Apple's payment service. Technology media 9to5Mac reported.

Netflix rolling out external subscription button for iOS users --9to5Mac

https://9to5mac.com/2022/07/22/netflix-external-subscription-ios/

Netflix starts linking iPhone and iPad users to an external sign-up page --The Verge
https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/23/23275298/netflix-apple-external-sign-up-link-iphone-ipad-app-store

For a long time, Apple has collected 15 to 30% of in-app purchase sales as a commission for paid apps distributed on the App Store of the iOS app store, but this fee, also called 'Apple tax', is charged. There are complaints that it is too expensive. Meanwhile, Netflix has long introduced a billing system that does not use in-app billing to avoid Apple tax, and it was treated as one of the 'exceptions' by Apple.

In recent years, national regulators have also raised the issue of Apple taxes, and many have been ordered to 'allow third-party payment systems.' In September 2021, following a survey by the Japan Fair Trade Commission, a link to an external website was added to the 'reader app' that allows you to browse subscribed content such as magazines, books, newspapers, music and videos. Clarified that the terms will be changed to allow inclusion.

Apple allows links from within the app to external websites, changes the terms worldwide-GIGAZINE

In response to this decision, 9to5Mac reports that Netflix, which used to induce its own subscription billing on its official website, has embedded a link to the 'external membership registration page' in the iOS app. I did.

This change has also been introduced in the Japanese version of the Netflix app. Actually, when you install the official Netflix app from the App Store and open the app ...

A button called 'netflix.com/join' was displayed at the bottom of the screen. Tap the button.

Then, 'You will leave the app and go to an external website. The procedure with Apple ends here.' 'Accounts and purchases created after leaving this app are managed by the developer' Netflix '. Your App Store account, registered payment methods, and related features such as managing subscriptions and requesting refunds are not available. Privacy and security matters in the process with the developer. , Apple is not responsible. ' When you tap 'Continue' ...

Safari, a web browser, opens an external website that allows you to create and log in to your Netflix account.

Foreign media The Verge said it was unclear when the link to the external page was added to Netflix's official app, and Netflix did not respond to requests for comment at the time of writing the article.