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Cancel Starmaker: The Right Way
How to cancel starmaker and reclaim your subscription in new zealand
What starmaker is and why you might want to leave
Starmaker is a karaoke and social singing app that lets you record, share and compete with other performers across a global community. The service operates on iOS and Android through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, with optional in-app subscriptions to unlock premium features.
You might use Starmaker to record covers, duet with friends, or participate in challenges. However, if you've decided the app no longer fits your entertainment budget or you're unhappy with the service quality, cancelling your subscription is straightforward-though the process depends on which platform you're using.
At Stopee, we know how frustrating it can be to feel locked into a service you no longer want. That's why we've mapped out every cancellation route for Starmaker subscribers in New Zealand, so you can take control of your billing immediately.
How subscription billing works for starmaker
Starmaker charges you through either the Apple App Store (if you're on iPhone or iPad) or Google Play Store (if you're on Android). The app itself does not handle your payment method directly. This matters because it means Apple or Google controls your refund eligibility and subscription renewal-not Starmaker.
Your subscription renews automatically on the same day each billing cycle unless you cancel beforehand. New Zealand consumers have specific legal protections under the Consumer Guarantees Act and Fair Trading Act, which we'll explore later in this guide.
Why cancel starmaker
Common reasons to cancel include: losing interest in karaoke, finding premium features not worth the cost, preferring alternative apps, or tightening your entertainment spending. Whatever your reason, Stopee is here to make sure you exit cleanly without unexpected charges.
Your consumer rights when cancelling in new zealand
New Zealand law gives you genuine protections when you cancel subscriptions, and Starmaker must respect them.
Consumer guarantees act protections
Under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, digital services like Starmaker must be of acceptable quality, fit for purpose, and delivered within a reasonable timeframe. If Starmaker fails to deliver these guarantees-for example, if the app crashes constantly or doesn't function as advertised-you have the right to request a refund, repair, or replacement.
This protection applies regardless of what Starmaker's terms and conditions say. If the service is defective, the platform (Apple or Google) may refund you under statutory consumer law, not just under their own policies.
Fair trading act coverage
The Fair Trading Act 1986 protects you against misleading conduct and unconscionable conduct by businesses. If Starmaker has misrepresented features or made cancellation deliberately difficult to discourage you from leaving, you can escalate to the Commerce Commission in New Zealand.
Keep records of any communications, subscription charges, and screenshots showing what you paid for versus what you received. These become crucial evidence if a dispute arises.
Where to escalate if starmaker won't cooperate
If you believe Starmaker has breached the Consumer Guarantees Act or Fair Trading Act and refuses to refund you or help with cancellation, contact the Commerce Commission (comcom.govt.nz) or your local Citizens Advice Bureau. These agencies can investigate unfair business practices and help you recover funds.
How to cancel starmaker on iPhone or iPad
Cancelling on the Apple App Store is the quickest method if you're an iOS user, and it stops automatic renewal immediately.
Step-by-step cancellation on apple devices
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your name at the very top of the settings menu.
- Select Subscriptions from the list.
- Find and tap Starmaker in your active subscriptions list.
- Tap Cancel Subscription at the bottom of the screen.
- Choose a reason for cancellation (optional) and confirm by tapping the red Cancel button.
- You'll see a confirmation message; take a screenshot for your records.
Pro tip: Check your subscription renewal date before you cancel. If your renewal is in two days, consider cancelling immediately to avoid being charged again. You'll retain access to Starmaker until the current billing cycle ends.
Warning: Do not simply delete the Starmaker app from your phone without cancelling the subscription first. Deleting the app does not stop automatic renewal-you'll still be charged when the subscription renews, and recovering that charge becomes harder once it's gone through.
Timing matters: the 24-hour rule
Apple processes cancellations immediately, but to be safe, cancel at least 24 hours before your next billing date. This gives Apple's system time to process your request and stop the automatic charge. If you miss this window and get charged, you can still request a refund from Apple within 30 days using the Stopee guidance on refund requests below.
How to cancel starmaker on android
Android users go through Google Play Store, and the cancellation process is equally straightforward.
Step-by-step cancellation on android devices
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet.
- Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Select Payments & subscriptions from the menu.
- Tap Subscriptions to see your active list.
- Find Starmaker and tap it.
- Select Cancel subscription and confirm your choice.
- Google will ask for a cancellation reason; this is optional but helpful feedback.
- Once confirmed, you'll see a cancellation date; save this for your records.
Pro tip: Unlike some platforms, Google Play allows you to cancel your subscription at any time, even on the last day of your billing cycle. You won't lose access to paid features until the current period expires.
Warning: If you've purchased Starmaker credits or add-ons separately (not as a recurring subscription), those are non-refundable through Google Play. Only recurring subscription charges are eligible for refund requests under Google's refund policy.
How long does android cancellation take
Google processes cancellations within 24 hours. You'll receive a confirmation email from Google Play, and your subscription will stop renewing after your current billing period ends.
How to cancel starmaker directly via email
If you've subscribed through Starmaker's own web platform (rather than an app store), or if you want to request account deletion, contact Starmaker directly.
Contacting starmaker support
Send a written cancellation request to [email protected]. Include the following details to speed up your cancellation:
- Your full name and email address linked to the Starmaker account
- Your phone number or account ID if available
- Your request to cancel the subscription effective immediately
- A brief reason (optional but appreciated by support teams)
Pro tip: Use the subject line "Subscription Cancellation Request" so your email doesn't end up in a spam filter. Keep a copy of your email and save any response from Starmaker confirming your cancellation.
Warning: Starmaker's terms state that refunds for subscriptions are handled by Apple or Google, not by Starmaker directly. If you cancel via email, you'll still need to request any refunds through the app store where you paid.
Additional steps for full account removal
Simply cancelling your subscription does not automatically delete your account or remove your uploaded performances and profile. If you want complete removal:
- Send a follow-up email to [email protected] requesting account deletion under your name.
- Specify that you want all personal data, recordings, and profile information deleted.
- Ask for written confirmation once deletion is complete.
- Save this confirmation email for your records.
This step is important if privacy is a concern. Until you request account deletion, Starmaker may retain your data according to its privacy policy, even after your subscription ends.
Starmaker pricing and subscription plans in new zealand
Understanding what you're paying for helps you decide whether cancelling is the right move.
Current plan options and costs
Starmaker offers subscription tiers through both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Prices vary based on your location and current promotions, but typical plans include weekly, monthly, and annual options. Because these prices change frequently and convert from USD to NZD at checkout, exact New Zealand dollar amounts are not guaranteed.
When you open Starmaker on your device and navigate to the subscription section, you'll see the most current NZD pricing for your region.
| Plan type | Typical billing cycle | Approximate NZD cost (check app for current price) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekly | Every 7 days | Varies (approx. NZD 5-8) | Trying before committing long-term |
| Monthly | Every 30 days | Varies (approx. NZD 15-25) | Most popular; good balance of cost and access |
| Annual | Every 12 months | Varies (approx. NZD 60-100+) | Committed users who want a discount |
Premium features typically include unlimited uploads, studio effects, ad-free browsing, and access to exclusive challenges and duets. Free users can still record and share but face upload limits and ads.
What happens after you cancel starmaker
Cancelling your subscription doesn't mean immediate loss of access, and understanding the timeline helps you plan your exit.
Access timeline after cancellation
After you cancel, you retain full access to Starmaker until your current billing period ends. If you subscribed to a monthly plan and cancelled on day 15 of a 30-day cycle, you'll have access until day 30. Once that date arrives, your premium features lock and you drop back to the free tier.
This grace period is intentional: it protects you from losing immediate access to content you've paid for, and gives you time to download or back up any recordings you want to keep.
What you lose after access expires
When your premium access ends, you lose:
- Unlimited recording uploads (free accounts have limits)
- Studio effects and audio enhancement tools
- Ad-free browsing and app experience
- Access to exclusive challenges and early-release features
Your account profile, past recordings, and followers remain visible (unless you request full account deletion). Other users can still view and engage with your content unless you delete it manually.
Auto-renewal stops immediately
The moment you cancel, auto-renewal stops. You will not be charged again on your next billing date. If your cancellation is processed before the billing cycle renews, you'll never see that charge appear on your bank or credit card statement.
Pro tip: Check your bank or card statement 3-5 days after cancellation, just to confirm the charge hasn't come through. If you spot a charge after cancelling, contact Stopee or your bank immediately-this is a refund situation.
Refunds: will you get your money back
Refund eligibility depends on why you're cancelling and how recently you were charged.
Starmaker's official refund policy
Starmaker's terms disclaim direct responsibility for refunds. The company states that because subscriptions are sold and billed through Apple App Store or Google Play Store, refunds are handled by those platforms, not by Starmaker. This is technically accurate but doesn't mean you're without recourse.
Your refund claim goes to Apple or Google, not to Starmaker directly. However, Stopee recommends keeping evidence of your cancellation request (screenshots, confirmation emails) in case you need to escalate.
When you can request a refund
Apple allows refund requests within 30 days of purchase. Google Play offers a similar 48-hour refund window for subscriptions, though you can appeal for exceptions beyond that timeframe if the service was faulty or misrepresented.
Refund eligibility improves if:
- You've used the service very little or not at all since purchase
- The service is defective or doesn't match its description
- You were charged multiple times due to a system error
- The charge was unauthorised (for example, if a family member subscribed without permission)
Warning: If you've actively used Starmaker's premium features for weeks and then cancel expecting a full refund, your request will likely be denied. Refunds are intended for early cancellations or situations where the service failed to deliver on its promises.
How to request a refund on apple app store
- Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Select Purchase History.
- Find the Starmaker subscription charge and tap it.
- Select Report a Problem and choose a reason (e.g., "I was charged by mistake" or "The app doesn't work as described").
- Submit your request and wait for Apple's response, usually within 24-48 hours.
How to request a refund on google play store
- Open Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Tap your profile icon and go to Payments & subscriptions.
- Tap Purchase history and find the Starmaker charge.
- Tap it and select Request refund.
- Choose a reason and submit.
- Google will email you a decision within 24-48 hours.
Pro tip: If your refund is denied once, you can appeal. Explain in your appeal that the service is defective or misleading, or cite the Consumer Guarantees Act (available to New Zealand residents). Include screenshots of the issues you experienced. Stopee has helped countless consumers overturn initial refund denials through persistent, evidence-backed appeals.
Common mistakes to avoid when cancelling starmaker
We understand how easy it is to make a small error that costs you money. Here are the pitfalls we see most often.
Deleting the app without cancelling the subscription
This is the number one mistake. Removing Starmaker from your phone does absolutely nothing to stop your subscription. Your recurring charge will still be processed on your renewal date, and you'll receive a charge notification even though the app is no longer on your device. If this happens to you, immediately request a refund through Apple or Google using the steps above.
Cancelling too close to your billing date
If your subscription renews tomorrow and you cancel today, there's a small window where the system might still process your charge. Always aim to cancel at least 24 hours before your renewal date. Check your subscription settings to confirm your exact renewal date before you take action.
Not saving your cancellation confirmation
Screenshots and confirmation emails are your proof. If you later spot a charge and contact your bank or credit card company, they'll ask for evidence that you cancelled. A screenshot of your cancelled subscription status on the app or the confirmation email from Apple/Google makes the case instantly.
Assuming the refund will happen automatically
Cancelling your subscription does not automatically refund past charges. You must actively request refunds through Apple or Google within their timeframes (30 days for Apple, 48 hours for Google Play). If you don't request a refund, you won't receive one, even if you feel you should.
Not checking your bank statement after cancellation
Occasionally, the system fails and charges you even after cancellation. Monitor your bank or credit card statement for 5-7 days after you cancel. If an unexpected Starmaker charge appears, contact your bank immediately and dispute it, providing your cancellation proof to Stopee or your bank's fraud team.
Checklist before you cancel starmaker
Use this checklist to prepare for a smooth cancellation and avoid regret.
- Download or save any recordings you want to keep before you lose premium access.
- Note your subscription renewal date (check in app settings).
- Plan to cancel at least 24 hours before renewal.
- Take a screenshot of your active subscription showing the plan and renewal date.
- Complete your cancellation through the app store (Apple/Google) or email Starmaker directly.
- Save the confirmation message or cancellation email.
- Verify cancellation by revisiting your subscription settings 24 hours later.
- Check your bank or card statement 5-7 days later to confirm no charge went through.
- If a charge appeared after cancellation, request a refund immediately through the app store.
Comparison: starmaker vs alternatives
Wondering if Starmaker is right for you, or if you should switch to another app first? This table shows how Starmaker stacks up against other popular karaoke and social singing apps.
| App name | iOS support | Android support | Typical monthly cost (approx. NZD) | Key difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starmaker | Yes | Yes | 15-25 | Large user base, competitive challenges, easy sharing |
| Smule Sing | Yes | Yes | 15-25 | Slightly larger song library, duet focus |
| Singa | Yes | Yes | 10-18 | Simpler interface, lower cost option |
| AutoRap | Yes | Yes | 8-12 | Rap focus, freemium model with ads |
| Karaoke - Sing Now | Yes | Yes | Free (ads) or 5-10 | Budget-friendly, basic recording features |
If you're cancelling because of cost, Singa or Karaoke - Sing Now offer cheaper alternatives. If you're cancelling due to poor community experience, Smule has a larger user base. At Stopee, we believe the best app is the one you'll actually use and enjoy-not the one that costs the most or has the flashiest marketing.
Your next steps: cancelling with confidence
Cancelling Starmaker is a quick process, but getting it right matters. Whether you're cancelling through Apple, Google Play, or directly with Starmaker, the key is to act before your next billing date, save your confirmation, and monitor your account afterward.
New Zealand consumer law is on your side. If Starmaker charges you after you've cancelled, or if the service is defective, you have the right to request a refund and escalate to the Commerce Commission. Don't accept "we can't help you" as a final answer.
Stopee has helped thousands of consumers cancel subscriptions they no longer want, recover unexpected charges, and reclaim control of their recurring spending. If you run into problems cancelling Starmaker, or if you're charged after cancellation, visit Stopee (stopee.com) for detailed guides on disputing charges and escalating complaints to consumer authorities in New Zealand.
Take action today, save your proof, and move forward with confidence.
Contact information for starmaker support
Email: [email protected]
For billing or account issues, include "Subscription" or "Billing" in your subject line to route your email to the right team.
For New Zealand consumer authority escalation, contact the Commerce Commission at comcom.govt.nz or your local Citizens Advice Bureau if Starmaker refuses to honour cancellation or refund requests after you've provided evidence.
Written by Marcus Ashworth
Consumer Rights Lawyer · 6 years experience
I practise consumer law out of Auckland, mostly advising on unfair contract terms and how to walk away from a bad subscription cleanly. A good cancellation letter does half the job before anyone picks up the phone, so I draft the templates Stopee readers rely on.