Photo by cottonbro
Apple is now giving "reader" apps on its platform the option to link to their website for payment and account management. The company defines reader apps as applications that "provide previously purchased content or content subscriptions for digital magazines, newspapers, books, audio, music, and video."
This change was first announced last year when Apple agreed to allow certain media services to add in-app links as part of a settlement with the Japan Fair Trade Commission. Apple acquiesced to the stipulation because these apps "do not offer in-app digital goods and services for purchase" anyway. And now, Apple is rolling out the change to all reader apps globally.
However, developers need to request access to the External Link Account Entitlement program before they can use in-app links. The change can help developers avoid giving Apple a cut from fees. However, Apple can still collect commissions for purchases within the app if the service offers any.