Apple unveils new tool for app purchases

Apple

Apple recently introduced a new tool that makes it easier for app developers to manage purchases within the App Store. This tool, called the “Enhanced Buying API,” helps developers offer more options for buying things inside apps.

What Can Developers Do With This Tool?

  • Large Content Libraries: Apps that have lots of items for sale, like books or lessons, can update their content more easily. This means users can buy new items without any hassle.
  • Creator Content: Apps where creators share their work can now let users buy subscriptions or one-time purchases directly linked to their favorite creators or collections.
  • Custom Subscriptions: For apps that offer subscriptions, developers can now add extra features or content, like special channels or local sports updates, which users can choose to add for an extra fee.

These new features use Apple’s payment system, which handles everything from collecting payments to dealing with taxes, making it simpler for both developers and users.

Why Now?

Apple seems to be updating its app store rules, especially after some pushback from developers and regulators, particularly in Europe. This new API is particularly useful for apps that had unique ways of making money, like platforms where artists or writers get paid directly by fans. For example, in 2022, Apple asked Patreon, a site for creators to get paid by fans, to use Apple’s payment system for transactions within their app.

This move by Apple aims to make the App Store more adaptable to different kinds of apps while keeping the payment process smooth and secure.