Subscriptions Weekly
We’re back with another Subscriptions Weekly issue! This time, we review the decline in sales for electronic gadgets and why Twitter paused its paid verification service. We dive deeper into Apple TV’s new MLS Season Pass, Netflix’s recent feature launch for managing account access, and Denny’s new breakfast subscription.
Predicted decline in electronics sales this season
After the pandemic boosted PC gear, tablets, video games, and home entertainment sales, the NPD Group predicts that U.S. holiday spending on tech products will decline by 6% from 2021. However, sales will still be 11% above the pre-pandemic level. Economic uncertainty could also keep customers from buying during this holiday season.
What do consumers want for the holidays? This year, nearly 70% of consumers want to give and receive subscriptions–convenient, budget-friendly, and easy-delivered gifts.
Twitter pauses paid verifications
After launching its $7.99/month service to boost revenue and survive the upcoming economic downturn, Twitter has stopped the Blue subscription. Twitter Blue allowed users to pay for a verification check mark; however, users abused it to impersonate others, generating losses for brands and famous people.
Apple TV to release MLS Season Pass
Starting February 1, 2023, subscribers in 100+ countries can get the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV for $14.99 per month during the season or $99 per season. Users can stream all live MLS regular season matches, playoffs, hundreds of MLS NEXT Pro and MLS NEXT games, and the Leagues Cup match. Learn more on TechCrunch.
Netflix launches feature to manage access and devices
Netflix’s account owners can now remotely log out of devices they don’t recognize or no longer want signed in. This addition could help Netflix push more freeloaders to become subscribers, following other recent launches also aimed at limiting account-sharing. Read more on TechCrunch.
Denny’s offers wearable breakfast subscription
The all-day dinner plans to release 150 “Everyday Value Tees” with a QR code for a year of Everyday Slam breakfast subscription for $5.99. The t-shirts feature a unique quick-response or QR code sewn into the garment design for in-restaurant redemptions. Learn more on Nation’s Restaurant News.
Google Play pilots more third-party billing options
Google’s user choice billing pilot allows Android app developers to select other billing options outside of Google’s own. Now available in the U.S., Brazil, and South Africa as well, Spotify and Bumble are now part of the options as pilot testers. Read more on TechCrunch.
More subscription news:
Chris Rock will make history as Netflix’s first artist to perform during a live global streaming event in early 2023. Read more on CNN.
Amazon shoppers in the U.S. and Canada will now be able to purchase GAP’s Family Essentials line on the site. Learn more on Gap Inc.
Roku is adding a dedicated sports section on its home screen. Read more on The Verge.
Join Recurly at these exciting events:
Revenue recognition: 5 critical must-haves for subscription businesses. Join Recurly finance experts Steve Springsteel and Aswin Kurella to discuss the challenges of accounting for recurring revenue and how to keep a good thing growing through revenue recognition. Save your spot.
See you at SportsPro OTT Summit in Madrid. How can subscriptions boost OTT and sports broadcasts? Reach out to Steve Dempsey and Phil Roach to book a time to discuss how Recurly can help you drive subscription growth.
Thank you for joining our Breakfast Series in London! We sat down with Greg Jenkins to learn more about his experience setting up a successful subscription, payment, and billing processes for FindmyPast. Stay tuned for our December edition announcement!
