Apple already allows users to pay directly to third parties like Netflix and Spotify on iPhone

From now on, Apple will allow the ‘reading’ applications that are part of its digital store, App Store, such as Netflix or Spotify, to integrate external links to their own websites for managing their accounts or paying subscriptions in their systems.

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In an official statement, those from Cupertino have announced that “with the update to the App Store Review 3.1.3 (a), developers of ‘reading’ applications – such as newspapers, books, audio, music or videos – can request access” to this advantage.

To have this permission, Apple has explained that developers must first fill out a form. To do this, you must have an account within the Apple Developer Program application development service.

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Once this account is created or accessed, they will have to answer some questions related to the ‘reading’ application they have created, as well as accept the terms and conditions of this Apple service.

For an ‘app’ to be considered suitable, it not only has to offer the basic features of a ‘reading’ service, such as Netflix or Spotify, but it must also allow users to register, access previously purchased content and services outside of the app.

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However, they cannot offer in-app purchases on iOS or iPadOS while using the external link account entitlement, nor provide real-time personal services (such as tutoring, medical consultation, workout routines…).

The technology manufacturer already opened up to this type of concession last year, after signing an agreement with the Japan Fair Trade Commission, which allowed some services to insert links within their iOS applications. Now, it has extended this option to other services.

This measure offers application developers an alternative option so that users can access their applications through external links and manage their accounts and payments from them, preventing Apple from taking its usual commission, which ranges between 15 and 30 per cent.

However, its digital store will continue to host other applications without alternative payment systems. That way, you’ll continue to generate revenue and collect commissions for purchases made within the App Store.

APPLE FOLLOWS IN GOOGLE’S FOOTSTEPS

Apple thus follows in the footsteps of Google, which just a week ago announced the launch of an additional billing system as an alternative to its official store, Google Play, which would begin its tests with Spotify allowing said application to bill its users directly.

In this way, Google continues to take a commission even if the user chooses to pay Spotify directly, although less than the usual 15 percent that it usually collects in this type of subscriptions that its digital store offers in its store.

Now, Apple will allow users to directly pay for services like Netflix and Spotify from the respective platforms. (Photo: James Yarena/Unsplash)

Source: Elcomercio