highlighted a number of important new changes at the event earlier this month aimed at developers. End users, however, will be most interested in knowing that soon they will be able to download universal Windows and Windows Phone apps. Now this welcome new addition also comes with a unified pricing scheme. Without getting technical, this is a way to remove the price point differences between Windows Store and Windows Phone Store apps; mobile users will now be able to download apps for as little as $0.99 or $1.29. Those of you that have any interest in the mobile world will be aware that these are two of the most popular price points for applications; the former more so. In fact, as Microsoft says here, apps priced in this range now make up a healthy 55 percent of Windows Phone transactions. And in order to lower the cost barrier, the company changed some things up over the weekend. Developers are now reporting that their app prices have just been revised. Additionally, Redmond has also made some more adjustments taking into account local factors like taxes and changes in foreign exchange rates to alter the prices. Interestingly, Microsoft is yet to clear the confusion on how these changes are reflected, as the updates to pricing do not appear to be consistent. Some apps that cost $0.99 before, now retail for $1.29. This is as odd as it is unconventional. A little openness should clear off the air. For developers and end users, both.]]>
I’m sure this will be resolved
Sounds like a glitch in the system more than anything. If not, apps and the people in charge of pricing aren’t on the same page.
I don’t think that price increase gets enough flack from consumers. When Apple did it, people were mad at first, but that was it. I guess because 1.29 doesnt sound like much more than .99 people didn’t care. However, when you think about it, they’re making 30 cents more every purchase on something as cheap at that. It’s a huge increase and too big of a jump in my view.
Really great point. The % change from this increase is more than substantial. I do this the difference between the two is way too big. With that said, this is an issue that needs to be resolved. As Ray said, I’m confident it will be.
Most people won’t care about 30cents increase. If you talk about percentage increase, charge 1 cent from a previously free product will end up an infinite percentage increase. Then should we all protest?