It says something about RIM's position that every 'new' feature rolled out on BlackBerry is undoubtedly one that's appeared first on one of its rivals.

To be fair, however, the latest update to its BlackBerry Payment SDK - subscription services - manages to be both flexible to developer needs, but aware of their weaknesses, with RIM handling all logistics in-house.

Subscription star

Developers utilising the SDK will be able to employ subscriptions both for apps themselves, and in-app digital goods.

"The new SDK provides APIs to check for the status of a subscription and the ability to cancel subscriptions," the firm says on its developer blog.

"BlackBerry Payment Service manages the subscription renewals automatically and sends out renewal reminders and receipts to users. Subscriptions are offered with 7-day or 30-day renewal periods, and all recurring billing is automatically handled by BlackBerry App World."

Freemium-for-all

RIM is keen to bill the update as a venture designed to accommodate the development community. The company has been criticised – both externally and, apparently, internally – for failing to reach out to studios.

The platform's new subscription service, it's claimed, will enable developers to monetise their titles as they see fit.

"With the introduction of BlackBerry Payment Service SDK 1.5, developers now have access to a new business model for their application and can easily move to a 'freemium' model if they choose," adds RIM.

"Premium features or content can now easily be offered on a subscription basis. This has benefits for both the customer and the developer."

Aside from the ability for studios to offer free or reduced price trial periods – all subscriptions payable via PayPal, credit card or carrier billing – BlackBerry Payment SDK 1.5's big selling point is that it builds on the API utilised in version 1.0, allowing developers to quickly and simply make the leap.

[source: RIM]