Google Play Books iOS App Update Offers Direct Purchases Through Google Play
Google has recently released an update to its Google Play Books iOS app, introducing a new “Get book” button. This feature allows users to make direct purchases of e-books and audiobooks via the Google Play website, circumventing Apple’s typical 30% commission on in-app purchases.
How It Works
When users click on the “Get book” button within the Google Play Books app on their iOS device, they are redirected to Google Play’s website. Here, they can browse their recently viewed books and complete purchases using their Google account and saved payment information.
Advantages of This Feature
This update offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows Google to avoid paying Apple a 30% commission on digital content purchases. Secondly, users gain more flexibility in how and where they make their purchases.
Another significant advantage is the seamless sharing of books with family members using Google Play’s Family Library feature. This sharing capability extends across different platforms, whether family members use iOS, Android, or web browsers.
External Link Entitlement
To implement this feature, Google obtained a special exception called the External Link Account Entitlement. This entitlement was originally introduced in 2022 as part of Apple’s settlement with the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC).
The entitlement is specifically designed for “reader apps,” defined as applications primarily designed to deliver digital content like books, magazines, audio, music, and video. Developers must request and receive approval from Apple to use this entitlement, and they must follow specific guidelines about how to present external links within the app.
User Experience and Guidelines
One important guideline for using external links is that users must see a full-screen notice alerting them that they are leaving the Apple ecosystem when they click the external link. This ensures transparency and provides users with clear information about their transaction process.
Other companies have also adopted this entitlement. Netflix, for example, introduced the feature in 2022, allowing users to sign up for subscriptions via their website directly from the iOS app.
Timing and Background
The timing of Google’s decision to implement this feature is interesting. While Google did not explicitly explain their reasoning, it is speculated that they may have been waiting for the outcome of the Epic Games vs. Apple lawsuit.
The lawsuit, which ultimately concluded in 2024 with the Supreme Court declining to hear the appeal, confirmed that Apple would have to allow developers to link customers to their own websites if they chose. This ruling provided the legal framework that allowed Google to implement their new purchasing feature without conflict.
Conclusion
The new update to Google Play Books on iOS enhances user experience and provides flexibility in purchasing options. By implementing external links, Google not only avoids Apple’s commission but also expands the ways users can share and access digital content across different platforms.
This move highlights the ongoing efforts of tech giants to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and ensure their customers have the best possible experience.
What Do You Think?
Are you excited about the new purchase options in Google Play Books? How do you prefer to make your digital content purchases? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
