Google has received approval to directly sell its e-books and audiobooks to users through its iOS application, Google Play Books. Although current iOS applications can provide access to content purchased from other platforms, developers must seek a special exception to link their app users to their company’s site for making purchases.
In a recent announcement on Google’s blog, it was revealed that a new “Get book” button will be available in the Google Play Books iOS app. This button will redirect users to the Google Play website for completing their e-book or audiobook transactions.
Once directed to the Google Play website, users will have access to their recently viewed book collections and can finalize their purchases using their Google Account along with saved payment details.
By handling transactions through its website, Google can sidestep paying Apple a typical 30% commission on in-app digital content purchases.
Additionally, users of the iOS app will have the ability to share their purchased books with their family group via Google Play’s Family Library, regardless of whether family members are using iOS, Android, or web platforms for reading or listening.
This update appears to be facilitated by Google applying for a special exception known as the External Link Account Entitlement, which emerged from a 2022 settlement between Apple and the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC).
This directive is aimed at “reader apps”—those primarily designed for accessing digital content, such as magazines, books, audio, music, or videos. Developers wishing to use this entitlement must seek additional authorization from Apple and adhere to various stipulations regarding how the external link appears and is coded within the app.
Moreover, it mandates that users receive a full-screen notification indicating that they are no longer interacting with Apple when they click on an external link.
Netflix was one of the early adopters of this new rule back in 2022, enabling users to subscribe via its website.
While Google has not clarified why it has only just opted to allow direct purchases, it may have been waiting on the outcome of the Epic Games vs. Apple lawsuit.
The case concluded that Apple was not operating as a monopoly but confirmed that Apple had to permit app developers to link to their own websites if desired. The Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal in January 2024, allowing the lower court’s ruling to remain intact.
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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