Disney+ has announced a ban on account sharing between people who do not live in the same household.This decision, which is already generating controversy and concern among users, replicates the strategy that Netflix successfully implemented to increase its revenue by preventing unauthorized account sharing. Below, we analyze How Disney+'s new shared account restriction will work, the timeframe in which it will be activated, how it will affect users in Spain and the rest of the world, and what the alternatives and possible repercussions will be.
Why do streaming platforms prohibit shared accounts?
El sharing accounts and passwords It has become common practice among users of streaming platforms. However, for companies like Disney+, Netflix, or HBO Max, this behavior implies a direct loss of incomeWhen multiple households use a single subscription, the number of actual subscribers decreases, negatively impacting profitability and the ability to invest in new content and technologies.
For a long time, streaming services have allowed users to use one account across multiple devices and homes. But with market saturation and rising production and licensing costs, it's now essential for these platforms. maximize each subscriptionFurthermore, they have detected that some users are even reselling access, which further complicates management and control.
Al limit the use of shared accounts, the companies intend to:
- Increase the number of active subscriptions and, therefore, their income.
- Control unauthorized access and ensure that each user pays for the service they consume.
- Deliver better personalized experiences by having profiles and recommendations truly linked to a single household.
Netflix was the first to take aggressive steps in this direction, and after having verified that the feared mass cancellations were not as serious and that the number of subscribers even grew along with profits, Disney+ has decided to follow the same route.
When do the new Disney+ restrictions for shared accounts go into effect?
Disney+ has informed its users that The limitation on account sharing will begin to be applied progressivelyThe process first began in countries like the United States and Canada, where customers received emails explaining the new terms of use. New users can no longer share accounts from the moment of subscription, while older users had a buffer period until the restrictions came into effect. For most of these users, the key date was mid-March.
La implementation strategy will be phased: After the initial phase, it will expand to Europe, Latin America, and the rest of the world in the following months. According to Disney executives, the full rollout is expected in the last quarter of the year, although specific timing may vary by country. This means that even if you haven't received notification in your region yet, It is very likely that the restriction will come soon.
In the communication sent it is specified that “We added limitations on sharing your account outside your household and explained how we can assess your compliance.”The company reserves the right to monitor usage and, if it detects activity inconsistent with its policies, may restrict, suspend, or terminate access to the service.
As an exception, in case of travel or temporary use away from the main homeDisney+ will allow access from other devices, as long as it's not regularly accessed from different homes. This way, they aim to avoid inconveniences for those who travel occasionally.
How will Disney+ know if you share your account outside your home?
Disney+ defines “home” as the set of devices associated with the subscriber's primary residence and used by the people who live there. The service may analyze the account usage to verify that it meets this requirement, although has not detailed exactly its control methodsFollowing Netflix's example, it's highly likely that the user's IP address, devices used, and connection patterns will be taken into account. If repeated access from different locations is detected, the platform may trigger measures such as:
- Ask the user to confirm the device or perform email verification associated with the owner.
- Temporarily block access until legitimate use is confirmed (for travel or similar).
- Offer the option to pay an extra fee to add members outside the household to the subscription (a feature that was also implemented by Netflix).
The zero tolerance policy on password sharing This means that if the company believes the user agreement is being violated, it may limit or terminate access to the service and take further action according to the terms of the contract.
Will there be exceptions or legal ways to share Disney+?
Although the new policy is very strict, Disney+ is working on alternatives that will allow users to add external members by paying a supplementThis model, already tested by Netflix, will offer the option of including people who don't live in the primary residence for an additional fee to the cost of the standard subscription. The exact amount of the supplement has not been officially announced, but it is expected to be similar to that of the competition, around several euros extra per month for each member added.
This new option is a way to formalize what was previously an irregular use and take advantage of the desire of many families and friends to share expenses, without violating service rules.
Furthermore, Disney+ allows you to continue using your account during short trips or travels.To do this, if you try to log in from an unusual location, you may be asked for additional verification, such as entering a code sent to your registered email. This way, the platform distinguishes between account sharing and legitimate mobile use.
What content can you watch on Disney+ and how does it affect your experience?
Disney+ has evolved to become one of the streaming platforms with the most complete catalog on the marketAlthough many believe its offerings are only for children, its content is currently very diverse and covers all age groups. By prohibiting shared accounts, the company also seeks to highlight the breadth and quality of its content to justify the cost of an individual subscription.
- National Geographic: Documentaries about nature, science, adventure, and animals to help you learn as a family and discover the world.
- Star Wars: All movies and series, including new productions, spin-offs, and animations.
- Pixar: Iconic films like Toy Story, Monsters Inc., Finding Nemo, Coco, and Cars, as well as exclusive short films.
- Marvel: All the movies and series in the Marvel universe since its integration into Disney, including recent releases.
- Disney Classic Catalog: From great animated classics to original productions and current series.
- Other own and third-party productions: Movies, documentary series, and adult and teen content, increased following the integration of brands like Star and Hulu in some markets.
The quality of the catalog is an argument for users to consider maintaining their subscription, especially given the impossibility of splitting the cost with non-cohabiting third parties.
What other measures accompany the end of shared accounts?
Disney+ tightens account-sharing policies does not arrive aloneThe company has already introduced new subscription plans, including cheaper ad-supported models, and has raised prices in many markets. Additionally, bundled packages with other services, such as Hulu (in markets where available), are being explored to attract and retain users.
Combining Greater control over accounts, new ad-supported plans, and price increases It seeks to offset investments in exclusive content, fierce competition, and rising operating costs. The stated goal is for users to opt to pay for their own subscription or, at least, officially add external members for an additional fee.
User reactions and the future of streaming platforms
Restrictions on shared accounts have generated division of opinions among subscribersMany users believe the measure affects their family finances, while others acknowledge that it was inevitable following the Netflix precedent. In countries where it has already gone into effect, initial cancellations have been recorded, but, according to data from competitors, a significant portion of users end up returning or creating new accounts.
The new Disney+ policy represents a paradigm shift in the consumption of streaming platformsNow, each household will have to assess whether the current catalog, the quality of the experience, and the new services offered justify maintaining the subscription. On the other hand, it is expected that over time, platforms will adapt their offerings to make it easier for families and friends to continue sharing accounts legally, albeit at a slightly higher price.
The transition may be uncomfortable for those accustomed to splitting costs, but it may also bring improvements in the personalized experience and the variety of exclusive content. The strategies adopted by Disney+ and its rivals in the coming months will shape the future of the industry and its relationship with its customers.
Disney+ users face a new scenario in which sharing accounts outside the home is no longer a free option. The platform is committed to strengthening its revenue and adjusting its business model to the current situation. With new restrictions, legal sharing options, and a constantly expanding catalog, each user must decide how to adapt to this new era of streaming.
