Disney Plus Password Sharing Crackdown Begins This September, For Real

Disney’s planned crackdown on Disney Plus password-sharing feels like it’s been in the works as long as Marvel’s Blade reboot. Both were announced a while ago, but delays have kept fans waiting. Unlike the eager anticipation for Blade, Disney Plus subscribers likely wish the password-sharing crackdown would be postponed indefinitely.

In a recent development, Disney CEO Bob Iger stated that the crackdown will “start in earnest” this September. This means if you share your Disney Plus account with people outside your home, you might have to pay extra. Better grab your credit card, because changes are coming.

Disney’s approach will probably mirror Netflix’s strategy. Netflix charges an extra $7.99 per month for each additional member outside the household, allowing you to add up to two people to your plan. This tactic was quite effective for Netflix, leading to a significant increase in subscribers. Some users opted to get their own accounts, while others chose the extra member option.

Disney first announced its plan to combat password sharing in February. By June, the company had rolled out a paid sharing trial in a few countries. Now, Disney appears ready to implement these measures globally. According to The Verge, Iger confirmed during an earnings call that the crackdown will indeed start in September.

No specific date or pricing details have been given yet. It could align with Netflix’s fee model, but that’s still speculative. Disney will likely have to make its plan attractive to its users.

Iger also mentioned that there has been “no backlash at all” to the paid sharing notifications already sent out. He added that he is “not concerned” about losing subscribers due to the upcoming price increases for Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus.

As these changes roll out, you’ll have to consider your next move if you currently share your Disney Plus password. With subscription prices rising simultaneously, it may become costly to continue sharing your account. If you’re using someone else’s account, you might need to get your own login or contribute to the extra cost.

Canceling your subscription is, of course, an option. However, Disney seems unfazed, likely feeling confident given Netflix’s success with similar measures.

Brace yourself for the new reality of streaming as Disney follows Netflix’s lead in combating password sharing. The coming months will reveal how subscribers adapt to these changes.

Source: The Verge