The Yudu service launched today with mainstream brands like Reader’s Digest and it plans to offer subscription services for Apple iOS devices without having to give 30 percent to Apple. How long before you think this gets banned?
The company described its product like this:
The new dual-subscriptions system from YUDU, whose customers include Reader’s Digest and Haymarket, allows users to download publications onto their Apple device through the App Store, even when the purchase is made directly from the publisher.
There aren’t many details on how it will be doing this and not being banned but it will be interesting to watch how this plays out. Many people expect the iOS platform and other tablets to be the future of publishing.
Apple launched its iOS subscription service a few months ago with News Corps’ The Daily app and it offers a simple way for users to use the App Store to sign up for a long-term plan. Previously, magazines like Wired would require you to purchase each individual magazine as an app at full price.
The problem with this is that many publishers are upset that the Apple iOS subscription service takes a 30 percent cut of the revenues, like it does with any sold app. The company is also requiring publishers to not offer subscriptions for a lower price than what’s offered on the App Store.
The Yudu service may offer a solid alternative but I just don’t know how it will stand Apple’s wrath. We’ll keep an eye on this one.