Apple to Allow 'Reader' Apps to Redirect Users to Sign Up for Services Outside the App Store

In some other major App Shop-related change, Apple has decided to allow "reader" apps to include in-app links and buttons to sign up and manage their account on their website. The move from Apple tree too leads to the Nippon Fair Merchandise Committee (JFTC) closing its investigation on the App Store over its unfair practices.

Starting next yr, Apple will allow "reader" apps like Netflix to include a sign up and/or manage my business relationship links in their iOS app. Apple currently prohibits apps from redirecting users to their ain website for set up and subscription process.

To ensure a safe and seamless user experience, the App Store'due south guidelines require developers to sell digital services and subscriptions using Apple's in-app payment system. Because developers of reader apps do not offer in-app digital goods and services for buy, Apple agreed with the JFTC to let developers of these apps share a single link to their website to assist users set up and manage their account.

The changes volition go into outcome in early 2022, and Apple tree volition update the App Store guidelines and review process to ensure that "users of reader apps" take a safe feel on the App Store.

This change from Apple volition be beneficial for "reader" apps similar Netflix and Spotify. They will be able to urge new users to sign up for their service from their own website, thereby bypassing the App Shop payment system and saving the xxx percent commission in the procedure.

Apple will too look into and address other developer complaints with the App Store, including further clarifying the App Store guidelines, improving the transparency of the app review process, and more. Apple will besides be required to submit annual reports to the JFTC for the next three years.

This change comes hot on the heels of Apple announcing an assortment of other changes for the App Shop to settle a lawsuit from United states developers.

As a function of those changes, Apple tree will allow developers to apply email and other forms of advice to reach out to their customers and inform them about alternative payment methods outside of the App Shop. Information technology will also be paying $100 one thousand thousand to small US developers as a part of the settlement process.

[Via Apple]