Apple has announced a significant shift in its subscription service offerings for users in India. The company is now integrating Apple TV and Apple Arcade directly into its iCloud+ plans, providing these entertainment and gaming services at no extra cost to iCloud+ subscribers.
iCloud+ Expands Its Value Proposition
Starting this month, iCloud+ users in India will automatically gain access to a broader range of Apple's digital content. The base iCloud+ plan, which offers 50GB of storage for ₹75 per month, will now include:
- Apple TV: Access to Apple's acclaimed original series, movies, documentaries, and kids' entertainment, featuring popular titles like Ted Lasso and Severance.
- Apple Arcade: Unlimited access to over 200 games without ads or in-app purchases. Titles include franchises such as Football Manager 26 Touch and NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition, playable offline across Apple devices.
- Apple Music Select: Ad-free, curated music stations covering regional genres, Top Songs, and nostalgic playlists from the 80s and 90s, available within the Apple Music app.
iCloud+ also supports Family Sharing, allowing up to five family members to utilize these expanded benefits. Additionally, eligible Airtel postpaid customers will also be able to access this enhanced iCloud+ offering.
What Happens to Apple One and Standalone Subscriptions?
The introduction of these new iCloud+ bundles marks the end of Apple One for new subscribers in India. While existing Apple One users can continue their current plans, they also have the option to switch to the new iCloud+ offering. Apple TV and Apple Arcade will no longer be available as standalone subscriptions for new users.
For those who desire the full Apple Music experience, including features like Spatial Audio and Lyrics Translation, a separate subscription is still required. iCloud+ subscribers can opt for the Apple Music Individual Plan at ₹115 per month or the Family Plan at ₹145 per month.
Existing subscribers to Apple TV and Apple Arcade will retain access through their iCloud+ subscription, and game progress and saves from Apple Arcade will be preserved during this transition.