# Disney+ Launches Paid Sharing Initiative to Combat Password Sharing
As streaming platforms advance, Disney+ has officially introduced a new paid sharing initiative in the United States and other selected regions, signaling a major policy change concerning password sharing. This effort is part of a larger movement among streaming services to enhance account security and ensure that subscriptions are used within approved households.
## The Updated Paid Sharing Structure
With the new policy, Disney+ subscribers are no longer permitted to share their accounts with people outside their household without facing additional fees. For those subscribed to Disney+ Basic, adding an Extra Member incurs a fee of $6.99 each month. For those on the Disney+ Premium plan, this fee increases to $9.99 monthly. This strategy intends to limit account sharing and motivate subscribers to keep their subscriptions within close family or household circles.
### Important Aspects of the Extra Member Initiative
– **Single Extra Member Allowed**: Each Disney+ account is permitted only one Extra Member, compelling subscribers to carefully select whom they want to include on their account.
– **Restrictions**: The Extra Member feature is unavailable to Disney Bundle subscribers or customers who pay via third-party providers, restricting its availability for some users.
– **Profile Migration**: Primary account holders can opt to transfer an eligible profile to their account or to an Extra Member profile, maintaining watch history and personalized preferences.
## Accessibility While Traveling
Disney+ has also addressed the needs of users who travel often. If a primary account holder is away from home and receives a notification that their device isn’t recognized as part of the household, they can choose the option “I’M AWAY FROM HOME.” This functionality allows them to keep enjoying their subscription while traveling. Furthermore, users can update their household location if they have recently changed residences, though this process necessitates a one-time passcode sent to the email linked to the account.
## Context within the Industry
Disney+’s initiative to curb password sharing follows the example of Netflix, which has successfully enacted similar strategies in the past. Netflix has employed various techniques, such as tracking account usage, device identifiers, and user locations, to ensure that subscriptions remain within a single household. Disney+ has announced that it will review account activity to uphold its new policy, striving to foster a safer and more viable streaming atmosphere.
## Launch of the New Initiative
The ability to include an Extra Member is currently accessible in the United States, Canada, Costa Rica, Guatemala, along with numerous countries across Europe and the Asia-Pacific area. This rollout demonstrates Disney’s dedication to evolving its services to align with the shifting trends in digital media consumption.
## Final Thoughts
As Disney+ rolls out its new paid sharing initiative, subscribers will need to evaluate the advantages of keeping access to their preferred shows and films against the added expenses. The choice to pay more for an Extra Member might hinge on personal viewing habits and the significance of shared access with family and friends. As streaming services continue to refine their rules, users must remain updated on alterations that could influence their viewing experiences.
Are you willing to incur extra costs to continue sharing your Disney+ account, or will you rethink your subscription? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
