Apple is currently testing a groundbreaking feature within the App Store
In a notable move, allowing developers to implement what they term “contingent pricing” for subscriptions. This feature empowers developers to offer discounted rates when users subscribe to bundles involving two distinct apps.
As per the latest update on the developer blog, Apple’s initiative enables developers to apply reduced pricing to an app’s subscription, contingent on users being subscribed to the other app within the bundle. This novel approach presents an exciting opportunity for indie developers to showcase their work by providing subscription discounts on bundles featuring their apps.
Senior Engineering Manager at Apple, Pete Hare, shed light on the development via LinkedIn, emphasizing Apple’s comprehensive management of intricacies such as eligibility checks and payment processes. Hare expressed, “We take care of all eligibility checks and commerce-related tasks, facilitating seamless in-app purchases within your own apps. Additionally, Apple provides streamlined flows for subscription and downloading in a single step via email links or the App Store, allowing you to offer discounts based on other apps within the App Store.”
Although currently in the testing phase, Apple has communicated that developers are welcome to promote these discounts through external marketing channels. This strategic move by Apple appears to be aimed at enhancing the App Store’s appeal to developers, particularly in light of the impending implementation of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) next year. The DMA mandates app distribution platforms, such as Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store, to enable users to install apps through alternative means.
Apple’s promotional language underscores the App Store’s capability to seamlessly manage the complexities of payment processing and subscriptions, even in scenarios involving multiple apps and developers. The sophistication demonstrated in this integration may pose a considerable challenge for emerging alternative app stores striving to replicate such intricate functionalities.This Apple initiative not only equips developers with a potent marketing tool but also positions the App Store as an advanced and developer-friendly platform. This move could potentially catalyze increased competition and innovation within the app distribution landscape, setting the stage for a dynamic and evolving ecosystem.
