Google Play's In-App Payment Requirements - The UpStream

Google Play's In-App Payment Requirements

posted Saturday Mar 10, 2012 by Scott Ertz

Google Play's In-App Payment Requirements

We all remember when Apple forced app subscriptions to use iTunes for their payment method, including a 30% cut to Apple. If I remember correctly, it was received really well by app developers. I don't think I am remembering correctly, though. In fact, there might have been a lot of backlash from companies like Pandora and last.fm.

Positive media coverage and happy developers from Apple's decision have led to Google making a similar decision. In standard Google fashion, however, they have upped the ante and threatened developers who do not currently follow the rules. Si Shen, CEO of Papaya, an Android social gaming network, told Reuters,

{Google} told people that if they used other payment services they would be breaking the terms of use. Whether it's right or wrong, we have to follow the rules.

How is this affecting developers? Hit the break to find out.

The distribution agreement states,

All fees received by Developers for Products distributed via the Market must be processed by the Market's Payment Processor.

While some may view this as a way to make the user experience more seamless from app to app, some developers, as well as myself, believe this is a way to force people to use Google Wallet. The service has had some problems in recent months, and this could definitely be Google's way to get people more comfortable with the platform.

Chances are that this is at least partially related to Google's attempt to make the platform more managed. With the security problems Google has had through the marketplace, and Apple almost complete lack of the same problem, it is not surprising that Google might be inclined to follow Apple's lead on the managed app store. Hopefully people will not be afraid to purchase through the store because of the integration.

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