Google Play Books Now Allows Direct Purchases Through iOS App
Google has recently received approval to allow users to buy e-books and audiobooks directly through its iOS app, Google Play Books. This update means that users can seamlessly purchase digital content without having to navigate through complex processes.
What’s New in Google Play Books for iOS?
Direct Purchase Functionality
Users of the Google Play Books iOS app will notice a new “Get book” button. When this button is clicked, it will redirect users to the Google Play website. From there, customers can complete their purchases for e-books or audiobooks with a few simple steps.
Access to Saved Payment Information
Once on the Google Play website, users can view their recently opened books. They can complete their purchase using their Google Account, which saves their payment information for a quick transaction process.
Benefits of Direct Purchases
Avoiding Commission Fees
One significant advantage of this new arrangement is that Google can process transactions directly through its site. This enables the company to avoid paying Apple a commission of approximately 30% that usually applies to in-app purchases. This potential cost-saving could lead to better pricing for consumers.
Family Sharing Options
In addition to making purchases easier, the Google Play Books app also supports family sharing. Users can share their purchased books with family members through Google Play’s Family Library. This feature works across all devices, so whether a family member is using an iOS device, an Android device, or a computer, they will have access to shared books.
Understanding the Changes
Apple’s External Link Account Entitlement
To implement this new functionality, Google requested an exception known as the External Link Account Entitlement. This entitlement emerged from an agreement Apple made with the Japan Fair Trade Commission in 2022. This rule applies specifically to "reader apps," which are designed to provide access to digital content such as books, magazines, music, and videos.
Developer Responsibilities
Developers who wish to use this entitlement must seek additional approval from Apple. They must also adhere to specific guidelines concerning how the external link is displayed and coded within the app. For example, users will see a full-screen message cautioning them that they are transitioning away from Apple’s environment when they click the link.
Industry Precedents
Netflix was one of the first companies to make use of this rule back in 2022, allowing users to sign up for subscriptions directly through its website. This demonstrated the viability of a model where companies could sidestep in-app purchase commissions.
Future Implications and Speculations
Although Google has not provided a specific reason for implementing direct purchases now, there are speculations. The timing could be related to the ongoing legal considerations surrounding Apple’s policies. A notable case involving Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, concluded suggesting that Apple is not a monopoly but may still be required to allow developers to link to their websites for transactions.
Conclusion
The introduction of direct purchases in the Google Play Books iOS app marks a significant step in reshaping how digital content is bought and sold across platforms. This change not only benefits consumers with easier access and potential savings but also enhances the usability and sharing possibilities of the app. As the digital marketplace continues to evolve, users can expect more innovations and adaptations from companies like Google and Apple in the future.
