Developers were highly vocal about Android Market's initial terms and conditions which allowed consumers to request a refund up to 24 hours after purchasing an item. That's the main reason it's since been reduced right down to 15 minutes.
You don't hear much in terms of similar talk about Apple's App Store, mainly because there's no official refund time.
However, as freemium becomes a more important business model for game developers, so it seems that Apple is operating its own unofficial refund policy.
Gimme back my money
Talking to several developers of freemium games, which have in-app purchases of up to $99, it seems an increasing number of consumers are regretting such high value decisions and phoning up Apple for a refund, citing accidental purchase. Of course, this means developers are seeing their monthly take reduced as refunds are made.
One developer told PocketGamer.biz that the issue was becoming 'substantial' in terms of its highest priced IAP.
It's something which also plays badly in terms of the whole debate over Capcom Mobile's Smurfs' Village, which as well as generating consumer ire over children accidentally buying Smurfberries, seems to have triggered a Federal Trade Commission investigation into the whole in-app purchase model.
News
Contributing Editor
A Pocket Gamer co-founder, Jon is Contributing Editor at PG.biz which means he acts like a slightly confused uncle who's forgotten where he's left his glasses. As well as letters and cameras, he likes imaginary numbers and legumes.
Related Articles
News
Mar 8th, 2011
Wealth of apps on iOS is killing developers says Digital Chocolate's Trip Hawkins
Top Stories
News
8 hours, 10 minutes ago
PocketGamer.biz Podcast - ustwo games’ María Sayans on the sustainable strategy behind Monument Valley
News
8 hours, 38 minutes ago
Squad Busters releases globally tomorrow… But is it REALLY the next big thing?
Feature
May 28th, 2024
Hot Five: Disney x Fortnite, Sega’s sonic speed, and a potential Keywords Studios buyout
Feature
May 27th, 2024
“There has been an increase in funding opportunities for African developers with more exciting times to come"
Events
Unreal Fest Gold Coast 2024 | Australasia | May 29th |
For The Win 2024 | Europe | May 29th |
Indie Craft K-Game Festival 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Indie Game Fest & Indie Campus 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Game Access Conference 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
GDCy Fest 2024 | May 31st | |
GameSummit Summer 2024 | Jun 1st | |
BostonFig Online 2024 | Jun 1st |