That's because Apple wants to thank its subscribers and keep them entertained during the winter. Or, if you want to be skeptical, increase its membership.
As first reported by TechCrunch, Apple is offering many existing Apple TV+ customers a free subscription extension.
When Apple TV+ launches, purchasing eligible Apple products would also come with a free annual subscription to the streaming service. If you picked up this deal at launch, that means your subscription should end in November.
Now Apple has announced that it is extending those subscriptions. If your subscription is due to end between November 1, 2020 and January 31, 2021, your next billing date will now be February 2021.
According to Apple, via TechCrunch, the company is offering this bounty because it "knows everyone is still looking at a tough winter ahead filled with COVID-related restrictions."
That's certainly true – many people around the world will be stuck indoors, desperate to be entertained as movies are delayed and theaters close.
Of course, this also helps keep Apple TV+ subscriber numbers healthy, and could entice those existing users to continue extending their subscription beyond February 2021.
If you subscribe to Apple TV+ with a monthly subscription, don't worry. You are not forgotten.
If your subscription start date is before November 1, 2020, you will get a $4.99 credit for November, December and January. Credit will be automatically applied if you keep your account open and have nothing to activate.
Anyone eligible for this offer, whether on an annual or monthly subscription, will receive an email to confirm details.
Apple has also confirmed that it will continue its program where you get a free one-year subscription with the purchase of any of its devices.
Apple TV+ had a slightly shaky start. Reviews on some of its launch titles, like The Morning Show, were mixed despite star appeal, and the platform didn't have much content to offer.
However, over time, the service has grown to host exciting original movies and TV shows. Popular shows like Dickinson are returning for a second season, and a host of new nature documentaries are currently rolling out.
