Demo content · illustrative estimate · not yet verified
10 / Subscriptions · Hack #04
Check if the same subscription is cheaper on the web than in the app store.
Some services price in-app subscriptions higher to cover app-store commissions. The website checkout can be cheaper.
“eh, betul ke?”THE PROBLEM
App stores take a cut of in-app purchases. Some services pass that on to you by charging more when you subscribe inside the app.
WHAT MOST PEOPLE DO
Tap 'Subscribe' in the app because it's right there.
(no judgement. we did too.)THE CHEAPHACK
Before subscribing to anything, open the service's website in a browser and compare the price at checkout. Subscribe wherever is cheaper, then log in on the app.
HOW TO DO IT
- STEP 1Open the app's subscription screen and note the monthly price.
- STEP 2Open the service's official website in a browser and go to pricing.
- STEP 3If cheaper on web, subscribe there and sign in on the app.
- STEP 4For existing subscriptions: cancel in-app at renewal, re-subscribe via web.
You’ll need: A browser · The patience to compare two numbers
THE MATH
WHEN THIS MAKES SENSE
- The service offers subscriptions on both web and app.
WHEN IT DOESN’T
- Web and app prices are the same.
- You rely on app-store family sharing that only works with in-app subscriptions.
THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR
- Not every service prices differently. It varies by service and can change.
- Make sure you're on the official website, not a reseller.
DO THE MATH WITH YOUR NUMBERS
RM108 for 5 min ≈ RM1,296 per hour of effort.
DID IT WORK FOR YOU?
Demo state: votes are not yet counted. No fake numbers here.
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