iOS App Subscriptions, Annual Supplier Report

Apple unveiled its recurring billing option for iOS apps this week. Previously developers could charge you for an app at the time of purchase, or you could initiate a one-time in-app purchase of additional content or access. With subscriptions, you can now opt to be charged on a regular basis for ongoing content updates such as newspaper or magazine content. Payment would happen through the iTunes system and your iTunes account.
Apple also created new rules for charging for in-app content. App makers can have their own system for collecting subscription fees, as long as the Apple system is also offered as an option. But publishers are unhappy with the rules as Apple takes a larger 30 percent cut of the price. Publishers will also have a harder time reselling customer information from app store purchases, a practice that is a big revenue stream for print magazines.
Apple released its annual Supplier Responsibility Progress Report which details the results of an internal audit of working conditions and environmental issues involving Apple subcontractors.
Problems in the past year include high worker recruitment fees, underage workers, and several suicides in the Chinese factories used to manufacture most of Apple’s hardware. The report details violations and steps Apple has taken to better the situation.