And So It Begins: iPad Magazine Apps Start Getting Updated With In-App Subscriptions
February 15, 2011
It was only this morning that Apple officially launched in-app subscriptions, and now, a handful of hours later, we are starting to see iPad magazine apps updated with this controversial yet highly sought after feature.
As of this very moment, Popular Science+, Elle, and Nylon for iPad are the first apps to be updated with in-app subscriptions. Apple has actually gone so far as highlighting all three apps in the iPad App Store with subtitles that simply state "subscribe now." Of course, The Daily already had this functionality built-in, but now we are finally seeing it outside of the highly touted iPad-only digital magazine.
Each of the apps offer a slightly different way to sign up for subscriptions and offer varying subscription durations. For example, when signing up for a Popular Science+ subscription, you are only provided with a single, one-year option. Elle, however, offers two different options along with the ability to get free digital copies as long as you provide your subscriber code from your print subscription, which is definitely a nice touch. Individual issues are still available for purchase in all three apps, but come at a much higher price tag than subscribing.
Since Apple is the one processing all of the payments, your private data won't be shared with the publishers unless you opt-in. Also, you can manage all of your subscriptions from your personal account page in iTunes, including canceling the automatic renewal of your subscriptions.
So now that in-app subscriptions are in full gear, keep an eye on AppAdvice and your App Store updates to see if your favorite app has received the new feature.
