Apple released its latest batch of updates for the Apple App Store Thursday. Could the updates include developer support for sending out promotional codes for in-app purchases? It certainly looks like it.
Jeff Scott of 148Apps.com found out that Electronics Arts is giving away free in-app currency worth $1.99 for its Real Racing 3 app for iOS.
"EA Mobile and Firemonkeys are saying 'Something big is coming for Real Racing 3,' and apparently it's so big that they want to make sure people are prepared by giving them 10 free gold, worth $1.99," writes Scott on the 148Apps blog. "Just visit this site from your iOS device and it will open the App Store to give you a promo code for your free gold. This is one of the first uses of promo codes for in-app purchases, which typically have been for obtaining paid apps."
Apple has long allowed promo codes for developers, but they were limited to downloading paid apps. In November last year, Apple announced that it is increasing promo codes for app downloads up to 100 for every new app version.
If what Scott says is true, the promo codes for in-app purchases will allow freemium app developers to provide access to beta testers and reviewers to their apps' full content without requiring them to make a payment. For example, gamers would be able to gain access to content that is previously only made available after they send their payment.
It is not clear whether Apple will announce the new feature soon or is only conducting testing with one of the more popular iOS apps. Another possibility is that Apple is allowing the in-app purchase promo codes through its App Store Code program, which allows developers to run special promos. EA has used this program for several past promos.
The company's developer guide still says: "Promo codes don't work for In-App Purchase products, including Newsstand issues."
It is also unknown how the new promo code system will work in the event that Apple officially debuts it. As per Scott, EA is sending an email that contains a link to a website that redirects you to the App Store where you can redeem the promo code. If the app isn't installed on your device, a pop-up appears that prompts you to download the app before you can claim your "Handful of Gold."
