According to Android Authority, T-Mobile is ending its free Apple TV+ perk that’s been included with most Plus and above plans. The carrier has started texting customers about the change, which takes effect January 1, 2026. Customers will then pay $3 per month for the service, while T-Mobile continues covering the original $9.99 monthly cost. This comes after Apple raised Apple TV+ prices from $9.99 to $12.99 back in August. The carrier is still offering new customers a six-month free trial, but after that they’ll need to pay the full $12.99 price themselves.
The carrier math is getting interesting
Here’s the thing – T-Mobile isn’t completely cutting off the benefit. They’re basically saying “we’ll keep paying what we agreed to, but you cover the difference.” It’s a clever way to manage rising costs without completely alienating customers. But let’s be real – when you sign up for a “free” perk, you don’t expect to suddenly get a bill for it years later.
And this isn’t just about Apple TV+. It’s part of a bigger pattern where carriers are rethinking all those streaming bundles they used to throw in for free. Remember when T-Mobile was the “Un-carrier” that broke all the rules? Now they’re playing the same cost-management games as everyone else. Makes you wonder what’s next – will Netflix on Us get a price tag too?
The streaming reality check
Basically, we’re seeing the end of the streaming wars’ “give everything away” phase. Carriers, like everyone else, are realizing that continuously rising content costs aren’t sustainable. Apple’s price hike forced T-Mobile’s hand, but you can bet other carriers are watching closely.
So what should customers do? Well, if you’re not using Apple TV+ much, this might be your cue to cancel. But if you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem and actually watch the content, $3 a month is still cheaper than paying full price. Either way, it’s another reminder that in today’s subscription economy, “free” rarely stays that way forever.
The timing is interesting too – January 2026 gives people over a year to adjust. That’s either being customer-friendly or hoping people forget about it. I’m leaning toward the latter. For more details on T-Mobile’s plans and features, check their official support page.
