Disney+ has launched a broad initiative to limit password sharing, mirroring Netflix’s strategy to convert non-paying users into subscribers. This program, available in the U.S., Canada, Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, and several other markets, encourages users to pay for family or friends outside their household who have been sharing their account.
Subscribers now have the option to add an “Extra Member” to their Disney+ account for an additional fee: $6.99 per month for Disney+ Basic and $9.99 per month for Disney+ Premium. This option allows the person outside the household to maintain their Disney+ watch history and settings by transferring their profile. However, this feature is not available for Disney Bundle subscribers or for accounts billed via third-party platforms.
Disney+ is tightening its definition of “household,” limiting access to people who reside at the primary personal residence. Outside users will need their own subscription or must be added as an Extra Member.
This move comes ahead of Disney+’s upcoming price increase, effective October 17, 2024, where the Basic tier (with ads) will jump from $7.99 to $9.99/month, and the Premium (ad-free) tier will increase from $13.99 to $15.99/month.
Similar crackdowns on password sharing are planned for Hulu and ESPN+, as Disney continues to align its user agreements to prevent account sharing outside primary residences.
Key Highlights:
- Password Sharing Crackdown: Similar plans for Hulu and ESPN+ are in the works.
- Extra Member Option: $6.99 for Basic, $9.99 for Premium subscriptions.
- Household Restrictions: Accounts limited to the primary residence, with one “Extra Member” allowed.
- Price Increase: Disney+ prices to rise on October 17, 2024.