The era of "completely free" streaming perks is witnessing a major shift in 2026. If you are a T-Mobile subscriber, you might have noticed a new line item on your monthly bill. T-Mobile has officially announced that it will no longer offer a 100% free Apple TV subscription for most of its premium plans, introducing a small monthly service fee instead.
Article at a Glance:
- The Change: A new $3.00 monthly charge for Apple TV+.
- Effective Date: Rolls out across billing cycles in early 2026.
- Primary Reason: Adjustment to Apple’s updated wholesale service pricing.
- Who Pays? Subscribers on Go5G Next, Go5G Plus, and Magenta MAX.
At MobileCares, we believe in transparency. While T-Mobile is still subsidizing a large portion of the cost, the shift from "On Us" to "Discounted" is a significant move that affects millions of users who chose these plans for their bundled value.
Watch: Understanding the T-Mobile Perk Changes
Why is T-Mobile Charging for Apple TV Now?
Since its launch, Apple TV+ has seen several price increases. To maintain the partnership without removing the app entirely, T-Mobile decided to implement a $3 monthly surcharge. This allows users to keep their current libraries and watch history without paying the full $12.99 retail price of a standalone subscription.
2026 Plan Impact Table
| T-Mobile Plan Tier | Old Perk Status | New 2026 Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Go5G Next | Free | $3.00 |
| Go5G Plus | Free | $3.00 |
| Magenta MAX | Free | $3.00 |
| Essentials / Simple Choice | 6-Month Trial | Full Retail Price |
Smart Ways to Save in 2026
If you aren't happy about the extra $36 a year, you can use the 3% Daily Cash back from your apple card to offset the cost. Additionally, ensuring your devices are in top shape can prevent unexpected costs. We recommend performing a regular Apple Warranty Check and reviewing our iPhone Screen Repair Guide to stay ahead of any hardware expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Apple TV+ still free on Go5G Next? +
No. While it was previously free, Go5G Next users now pay a discounted rate of $3 per month for the Apple TV+ subscription as of 2026.
Does this violate the T-Mobile Price Lock? +
Technically, no. T-Mobile's Price Lock applies to your core "Talk, Text, and Data" rate. Third-party perks like streaming services are subject to change based on provider agreements.
How do I cancel the $3 Apple TV charge? +
You can cancel by logging into the T-Life app, navigating to 'Manage Data & Add-ons,' and removing the Apple TV+ feature from your line.
What happens to my watch history if I cancel? +
Your watch history is tied to your Apple ID, not T-Mobile. If you cancel through T-Mobile and resubscribe later, your data will still be there.
Are there any other free streaming options left? +
Yes, T-Mobile currently still offers Netflix (with ads) and Hulu on select plans, though these are also subject to carrier changes.
