Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) has added support for promo codes in the Google Play Store, which is a feature that had been requested by many Android users. With the new update, people will be able to enter codes in order to get free apps, app discounts and in-app content. Reports would appear to show that the number of developed apps is getting bigger than ever before, with the massive adoption of smartphones in new markets.
According to Google support, developers will be permitted to issue up to 500 codes every three months, including codes for free apps or for in-app purchases. Also, app makers can issue 100 codes for five different products of their apps. It was added that once the codes are created they can be changed for security reasons.
The Google Play Store has already more than 1.6 million apps, from more than 293 K developers, which is more than the number of apps the App Store from iOS has. However, reports have demonstrated that developers from iOS make approximately 60% more money than Android app makers. That being said, Google is trying to help developers with new methods for getting more sales.
“Promo codes let you give content or features away to a limited number of users free of charge. Once you create a promo code, you can distribute it subject to the terms of service. The user enters the promo code in your app or in the Play Store app, and gets the item at no cost. You can use promo codes in many ways to creatively engage with users,” wrote Google.
With the possibility of adding promo codes to get free apps, developers could promote their apps in the community of critics and experts in order to get important reviews and make new updates based on the comments, to obtain more sales and more engaged users. Also, the new feature could be used to make special advertising with promo codes for special users that attend to events or for users who are loyal to certain businesses.
“A game could have a special item, such as a character or decoration, that’s only available to players who attend an event. The developer could distribute cards with promo codes at the event, and users would enter their promo code to unlock the item. An app developer might distribute promo codes at local businesses, to encourage potential users to try the app. An app developer might give out ‘friends and family’ codes to its employees to share with their friends,” explained Google.
Last year, the market of apps was invaded by new innovative creations that were downloaded by thousands of people. Google featured Instacart, Trulia, RobinHood, Nova Launcher and games Alphabear, Hearthstone Heroes of Warcraft and Crossy Road among the bests apps of 2015.
According to reports from App Annie, a company that analyzes sales, revenues and downloads from mobile app stores, Chinese sales of iPhones and Android Phones presented a large increment in the revenues of apps in 2015. In fact, China has become the most important market for companies like Apple, since a new segment of people with more income is being developed in the country. That being said, the United States is still the market that generates more revenues for app sellers.
Source: Android Developers Blog