In a major update from Apple, developers will now be able to sell in-app purchases (or downloadable content – DLC) in free apps sold on iTunes. This update marks a complete turnaround from Apple’s initial stance on this topic. The previous rule stated that all apps offering in-app purchases must cost at least $0.99.
The email sent to developers reads as follows:
In App Purchase is being rapidly adopted by developers in their paid apps. Now you can use In App Purchase in your free apps to sell content, subscriptions, and digital services.
You can also simplify your development by creating a single version of your app that uses In App Purchase to unlock additional functionality, eliminating the need to create Lite versions of your app. Using In App Purchase in your app can also help combat some of the problems of software piracy by allowing you to verify In App Purchases.
Visit the App Store Resource Center for more details about how you can add In App Purchases to your free apps.
How will this affect the current landscape of iPhone and iPod touch games? One obvious possibility is reducing the price of full version games to free and charging for all the best content, new levels, power-ups, etc. This brings into question the need for a Lite version of said games.
