Welcome back to Subscriptions Weekly! This week, we’re breaking down the FTC’s newly finalized rules that make subscription cancellations easier for consumers—big news for subscription brands everywhere.

Then, we explore a surprising team-up between Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video, showing how the streaming wars are evolving. Next, we dive into the healthcare world, where doctors are ditching insurance in favor of subscription-based models. And finally, we take a look at CNN’s new digital paywall as they seek to build fresh revenue streams.

Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

FTC finalizes rule that makes it easy to cancel unwanted subscriptions

The FTC has just finalized a new rule that’s set to shake up the subscription world, making it easier for customers to cancel their services. Now, businesses will need to be crystal clear about what subscribers are signing up for, get explicit consent, and offer a simple, transparent way to cancel—whether it's online or in person. The rule also focuses on automatic renewals, making sure customers fully understand and agree before being enrolled. Subscription brands have 180 days to make adjustments and stay compliant. Learn more about the rules and what they mean for subscription brands.

Frenemies unite: Apple TV+ joins Amazon Prime Video in streaming power play

In a surprising twist in the streaming wars, Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video are teaming up to offer Apple TV+ as an add-on subscription through Prime Video for $9.99 per month. This partnership boosts Prime Video’s status as a powerful streaming hub, while giving Apple TV+ broader access to millions of Amazon users—all within one seamless platform. Initially launching in the U.S., this collaboration is expected to expand globally, signaling a growing trend of streaming services joining forces to deliver a more streamlined and personalized entertainment experience. Learn more about the strategic alliance here. 

With US health care costs skyrocketing, these doctors are ditching insurance for a subscription-based model

With health care costs skyrocketing in the U.S., some doctors are saying goodbye to insurance and embracing a subscription-based model. Think of it like Netflix—you pay a predictable monthly or annual fee and get unlimited access to your doctor. This approach cuts out the middlemen and the headache of insurance, offering patients unlimited visits, routine exams, urgent care, and more, all without the inflated costs. It's a refreshing change in the healthcare space, as both doctors and patients look for a more affordable, hassle-free way to focus on quality care. Learn more about how it works here.

CNN launches a digital paywall

CNN is stepping into the subscription game by introducing a digital paywall, charging $3.99 a month for some users to access content. Casual readers who only check out a few articles won’t be asked to pay just yet, but those who dive in for more will need to subscribe after hitting a limit. CEO Mark Thompson is focused on creating “best-in-class, subscription-ready products” as CNN looks to build new digital revenue streams to make up for traditional TV declines. With other major news outlets like Thomson Reuters also jumping on the paywall bandwagon, it’s clear that the race to build sustainable digital revenue in news media is heating up. Subscription brands can take note of how this pivot is reshaping a legacy business. See the full article here.

Subscription Sessions is back! 

Growth is on every brand’s mind, and Subscription Sessions: Get Ahead of What’s Next is the event to help you scale your subscription business. Our free virtual summit is bringing together leaders from Worldpay, Paramount+, CNBC, AllTrails, and more to share actionable strategies that you can start using right away.

Whether it’s understanding the latest subscription trends, shaping subscriber behavior with pricing, or successfully launching in new markets, this event has you covered. Want to learn what it takes to Get Ahead of What’s Next? Save your spot now!

From the Recurly blog