Apple’s Clever Trick to Keep You Hooked on Apple TV+: A 54% Discount Deal

What to know

• Apple offers a $5.99/month deal for two months to prevent Apple TV+ cancellations.
• The discount follows a price hike to $12.99/month, aiming to retain subscribers.
• Annual subscriptions remain at $99, offering a cheaper long-term option.
• User reactions are mixed, with many skeptical of Apple’s retention tactics.

You’re about to hit the cancel button on your Apple TV+ subscription, and boom—a pop-up offers you two months at $5.99 instead of the usual $12.99. Sounds tempting, right? Apple’s rolling out this deal to keep you from jumping ship after their recent price increase. But what’s the catch, and is it worth sticking around?

This discount, spotted just days ago, seems like Apple’s way of saying, “Please don’t go!” With the price of Apple TV+ jumping to $12.99 per month in the U.S., it’s no surprise some subscribers are rethinking their commitment. This temporary price cut might just be the nudge you need to stay—or a clever tactic to keep you paying longer.

The Price Hike That Sparked It All

Let’s talk about that price hike. Apple TV+ used to be a steal, but at $12.99 a month, it’s starting to feel like a premium service. For context, that’s a significant jump from its original pricing, and it’s got some users grumbling. If you’re one of those thinking of canceling, Apple’s betting this $5.99 deal will make you reconsider.

But here’s the kicker: after two months, the price snaps back to $12.99. So, if you take the deal, mark your calendar to cancel before November unless you’re ready to pay full price again. It’s a short-term win, but you’ll need to stay sharp to avoid the higher cost.

Another Way to Save: The Annual Plan

If you’re in it for the long haul, Apple’s annual subscription might catch your eye. At $99 a year, it breaks down to about $8.25 a month—cheaper than the standard $12.99 monthly rate. This option hasn’t seen a price change, making it a solid choice if you love Apple TV+’s lineup of shows and movies.

The annual plan could be a smarter move than the two-month discount if you’re not planning to cancel anytime soon. It’s like committing to a year-long gym membership—you save more by locking in upfront.

Quick View: Apple TV+ Pricing Options

Here’s a handy table to break down your options:

This table makes it easy to compare your choices. The discount offer saves you $14 over two months, but the annual plan saves you $53.88 a year compared to the standard monthly rate.

What’s the Buzz? User Reactions Speak Volumes

Hop over to the comments section on MacRumors, and you’ll see the deal isn’t winning everyone over. One user, klasma, quipped that canceling gives you “100% off perpetually,” which got a lot of laughs and likes. Others, like bmolands, suspect Apple’s hoping you’ll forget to cancel after the discount ends, letting that $12.99 charge sneak back in.

Ralfi called out Apple’s “greed,” while iObama said deals like this make them cancel on the spot. It’s clear some folks aren’t falling for the discount bait. On the flip side, the offer might sway those who still enjoy shows like Ted Lasso or Severance but were put off by the price hike.

Is This Deal for You?

So, should you take the bait? If you’re on the fence about Apple TV+, this $5.99 deal gives you two months to binge your favorite shows at a 54% discount. It’s a low-risk way to enjoy hits like The Morning Show or Silo without committing to the full price right away. Just set a reminder to cancel before the third month if you don’t want to pay $12.99.

Alternatively, if you’re a die-hard fan, the $99 annual plan might be your best bet for long-term savings. Either way, Apple’s playing a smart game to keep you subscribed, but you’re the one who decides if it’s worth it.

The Bigger Picture: Apple’s Strategy

This discount isn’t just about keeping you entertained—it’s about Apple protecting its streaming empire. With competition from Netflix, Disney+, and others, Apple TV+ needs to stand out. The price hike might fund more original content, but it’s also pushing some users away. This deal feels like a quick fix to slow the cancellations, but will it win back trust?

Some users, like DHagan4755, argue Apple should focus on improving services like Siri or AI instead of pouring money into TV+. It’s a fair point—Apple’s got a lot on its plate, and keeping subscribers happy is just one piece of the puzzle.

Your Move: Stay or Go?

Apple’s $5.99 deal is a tempting offer, but it’s not a game-changer for everyone. If you love Apple TV+’s exclusive content, it’s a great chance to save a bit. But if the price hike has you questioning the service’s value, maybe it’s time to explore other streaming options or stick to the annual plan for better savings.

What’s your take? Will you grab the discount and binge, or are you ready to say goodbye to Apple TV+? Whatever you choose, keep an eye on that subscription date—Apple’s counting on you to forget!