Netflix has officially cut Apple’s iTunes Store out of its business.
“We no longer support iTunes as a method of payment for new members,” a Netflix spokesperson told MCN in an email. “Existing members who currently use iTunes as a method of payment can continue to do so. Apple is a valued partner with whom we work closely to deliver great entertainment to members around the world across a range of devices including the iPhone and Apple TV.
Related: Netflix Cuts Apple Out of In-App Purchase Revenue
Apple recoups 15% - 30% of all subscription revenue, current and moving forward, when a user signs up for a service through its iTunes App Store and uses its billing system.
Last summer, Netflix began testing a scheme whereby new users had to sign up directly on the streaming service’s website, thus bypassing iTunes. Last week, Venture Beat reported that Netflix had gone ahead with the plan.
For both Netflix and Apple, the revenue consequences are significant.
According to Sensor Tower, which tracks the app business, the Netflix app was the No. 1 grossing app in the U.S. for Apple’s App Store in November. The Netflix app generated $243.7 million in the third quarter, a 90% year over year increase.
Netflix has collected an estimated $1.4 billion through app marketplaces on Apple and Google to date.
