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Apple now allows “reader” apps to add external links for payments

Last Wednesday (30), Apple announced a major change in the policies of its app store. From now on, apps classified as “readers” that are allocated on the App Store will be able to add external links on their platforms for managing accounts or payments on their own websites.

Previously, reader apps—those focused on providing digital content like Netflix or Spotify—wanting to circumvent the 30% commission Apple charges for any app store purchase couldn’t provide direct links to subscriptions or subscriptions.

That is, account settings or sign-ups of new users had to be done by browsers and at the “own expense” of individuals. For apps, this meant an extra effort from customers, making the iOS experience difficult.

But after an agreement with the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) last year, the apple company will now have to allow apps to insert links to their websites into the platform itself. There, users will be able to pay for new subscriptions or manage their accounts.

Image: Disclosure/Apple

Apple requirements

But of course, it won’t be that simple. Before taking advantage of the permission, developers will have to fill out a form and submit it to big tech requesting the “right” to add external links. And, well, not all apps — see, Fortnite? — that can enter this cake.

Apple’s statement makes it clear that the right will only be granted to applications whose main functionality is the provision of digital content. In practice, this will encompass tools focused on magazines, newspapers, books, audio, music or video.

Despite this, no payments can be made through the application when accessing the external link — purchases only in the browser. Even if they don’t allow purchases directly through the app, companies won’t be able to advertise subscription prices on the platform either. Everything will have to be done separately, in the browser.

Good news, but…

While the move is being taken to get Apple to disengage from antitrust lawsuits, this new permission is quite limited. Direct in-app purchases will still not be commission-free. The only change was to allow users to access sites more easily, through one tap.

It’s too little? It’s too little. But at least managing accounts or signing up new users will be a little less complicated.

Via: The Verge

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