ByPassing App Store Payments: Discover Applications bypassing Apple's integrated payment platform
Apple iPhone Users Gain Access to Alternative Subscription Payment Methods
Apple users in the United States can now pay for subscriptions and services within apps using alternative payment methods, following new guidelines for app developers. These changes have been implemented in response to a recent court ruling.
For years, Apple kept app developers from informing users about alternative payment options for subscriptions or services that didn't go through the iOS App Store. This practice affected many apps, including Spotify, which prevented users from paying for their subscriptions within the app.
However, last month, a U.S. District Judge ordered Apple to change its policies. The tech giant was instructed to dismantle barriers surrounding its exclusive payment system for in-app digital transactions. The judge also mandated that Apple allow developers to offer links to alternative payment options, cease preventing app makers from communicating directly with users, and stop imposing new commissions on purchases outside the App Store.
Spotify, among other companies, swiftly took advantage of the opportunity, updating its app to enable direct payment within the app for subscriptions. Users can now view pricing details for various subscription plans, as well as sign up for a premium subscription or switch to another subscription plan, all through the app. Spotify users can also purchase audiobooks directly within the app.
Notably, the popular game Fortnite is now available again on iOS, following Apple's initial refusal to approve the app's return. The comeback is possible after Apple relented this week, allowing the game back onto U.S. and European Union users' phones. Fortnite maker Epic Games has introduced new payment buttons within the app, allowing players to choose between Apple's in-app purchasing system and Epic's own payment system, which offers the potential for an extra 20% in rewards.
Amazon has also updated its Kindle app, adding a button that allows users to buy books directly from their iPhones. Before this update, users could only look up books on the app or purchase them on the Kindle reader, requiring additional steps to complete the transaction.
Patreon, a platform for supporting online creators, has updated its iOS app to enable users in the U.S. to skip the Apple checkout option and instead use Patreon's own checkout option when purchasing memberships. This bypasses Apple's commission fees, giving fans more payment options and flexibility.
Despite the changes, Apple is appealing the court ruling, which means the long-term availability of these alternative payment methods remains uncertain.
- Amazon has taken advantage of the new guidance and updated its Kindle app, allowing users to purchase books directly from their iPhones.
- In Seattle, the tech hub, smartphone manufacturers are now competing with Amazon's gadgets in the business of in-app digital transactions, as Apple users can access alternative payment methods.
- With the addition of a button on the Kindle app, users can now buy books without leaving the Amazon smartphone app, bypassing Apple's commission fees and providing them with more payment options and flexibility.
