Amazon is following the trend set by Apple for supporting in-app purchases and subscription billing. In common with Apple and Google, Amazon will take a 30% commission, handing over 70% of revenue to developers.
Workout Trainer from Skimble is one of the apps participating in an Amazon pilot of a service that facilitates the purchase of subscriptions and additional items from within apps.
Skimble, which already sells its physical fitness programs through the Apple App Store and Google Play, has been involved in the Amazon trial for over a month. Co-founder Maria Ly explained:
We really wanted to attack the Kindle Fire market, but also have access to the payment methods that support our business.
Most of Skimble's sales come from subscriptions and in-app purchases, such as specific workout regimens. It charges $24.99 for a three- month membership of its workout program and an average of $9.99 for individual programs and is offering both of these with the new Amazon app service.
It's still kind of in its early stages," Ly said of the services being tested. "But we're very optimistic about it."
It seems that in-app purchases are now an established way to make money from apps and not just a way to make extra money. Next time you have an idea for an app make sure you work out how you can build in something worth the user purchasing as a follow on service or subscription.
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