Fairly or unfairly, muscular companies such as Amazon and Apple will now face more scrutiny when they seek to generate more revenue from their hold on online shopping or smartphone systems. — AP
I wrote recently about why Amazon.com Inc’s commercial messages in product searches are a risky way to levy additional fees on the companies that sell through its digital mall. Apple Inc is increasingly wading into similar waters.
Type in “maps” or “dating apps” in the search bar of Apple’s widely used iPhone app storefront, and you might see a result for Google Maps or the Tinder app shaded in blue and labeled as an ad. Developers pay Apple when someone taps on those promotions. Apple has been selling those ad spots for several years as a way for developers to stand out in the sea of iPhone apps.
Win a prize this Mother's Day by subscribing to our annual plan now! T&C applies.
