If you're paying $18,99 for YouTube Premium, you may be one of a large percentage of subscribers who are spending their money incorrectly. This is because of the 30% commission applied to purchases through Apple's App Store, which results in a higher price. In fact, iPhone users or iPad they pay almost $5 extra per month, while the direct price from YouTube is $13,99.
It's important to note that Apple's restrictions on apps prevent many of them from informing users about cheaper options. This practice has led Apple to legal battles, not only with the European Union but also with companies like Epic Games.
The solution is simple: cancel your current subscription through the Apple App Store and sign up directly through the YouTube website. This way, you can avoid the fee, even if you're using an iPhone or iPad.
Your subscription will remain active until the end of the billing period, ensuring you don't lose access to your favorite services.
Understanding Apple's 30% Fee
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Because YouTube is owned by Google, the users Android are not subject to the same surcharge when signing up. However, if you sign up through Google Play for other subscriptions, you should expect to also face the same 30% commission.
This 30% fee applies to all subscription apps, so it's important to check if you have any other active subscriptions through Apple's App Store. Many apps also offer the option to sign up through their website, which avoids the fee.
For example, platforms like Spotify and Netflix do not allow in-app subscriptions. They have recognizable brands and prefer to forgo any lost revenue. However, small businesses are often burdened by these restrictions and do not have the same opportunity.
Significant conflicts have arisen with Apple, as platforms like Spotify and Patreon have demanded more freedom in assigning recordings. For a more detailed analysis, you can visit the following link: The Verge.
