Our company (brand: ibolt.co) is a manufacturer of "hardware" accessories for Smartphones. A particular app, which is currently being sold on the Google Play store for less then $5. We wish to bundle this app (=include at no additional cost) and "give" to anyone buying our hardware accessory. The challenge is that from our understanding the Google Play store does NOT offer the option of entering a (for example) a 12 or 15 digit randomly generated code that we as hardware sellers could include in each package of product shipped to consumers. This would be "pre-paid" to the developer and Google (yes, they need their share I guess...).
The option of "sideloading" and providing a link via email is not a real option either as this would eliminate the verification/app protection process currently in place for the Developer to avoid that there's an unprotected app "out there" that would surely be posted on file sharing/black market type sites immediately.
For reference our "hardware" products will mostly be shipped from Amazon or purchased by the consumer in a Telecom store type Sprint, Verizon dealer. We would like to have a sticker/image on the box saying "Android app XX" included, value $4.99" or something similar.
QUESTION: Is there any technical option of solving this and including an Android app together with a piece of "hardware" and still protect the Developer with regards to license verification etc.? We are hoping there's a solution out there as many Corporate applications are "sideloaded", yet they must have some protection in place...
MikaelPe said:
Our company (brand: ibolt.co) is a manufacturer of "hardware" accessories for Smartphones. A particular app, which is currently being sold on the Google Play store for less then $5. We wish to bundle this app (=include at no additional cost) and "give" to anyone buying our hardware accessory. The challenge is that from our understanding the Google Play store does NOT offer the option of entering a (for example) a 12 or 15 digit randomly generated code that we as hardware sellers could include in each package of product shipped to consumers. This would be "pre-paid" to the developer and Google (yes, they need their share I guess...).
The option of "sideloading" and providing a link via email is not a real option either as this would eliminate the verification/app protection process currently in place for the Developer to avoid that there's an unprotected app "out there" that would surely be posted on file sharing/black market type sites immediately.
For reference our "hardware" products will mostly be shipped from Amazon or purchased by the consumer in a Telecom store type Sprint, Verizon dealer. We would like to have a sticker/image on the box saying "Android app XX" included, value $4.99" or something similar.
QUESTION: Is there any technical option of solving this and including an Android app together with a piece of "hardware" and still protect the Developer with regards to license verification etc.? We are hoping there's a solution out there as many Corporate applications are "sideloaded", yet they must have some protection in place...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think this is possible with the play store. The next best thing I can think of is for you to refund your customers directly (ie: make them purchase the app and then refunding them the money via a coupon code or something included with the hwardware.)
Master_T said:
I don't think this is possible with the play store. The next best thing I can think of is for you to refund your customers directly (ie: make them purchase the app and then refunding them the money via a coupon code or something included with the hwardware.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i ws thinking the same, but since you are selling your hardware in amazon, why not check if amazon app store has something to offer you?
What about in app purchase?
You can make the application free on the market, but then make your own arrangements with your customers
Sent from my GT-P1000 using Tapatalk 2
Related
http://blog.palm.com/palm/2011/09/good-things-like-promo-codes-come-to-those-who-wait.html
We promised our non-U.S. TouchPad fans that we’d have some app promo codes for them too, and the first three are now available exclusively for users in Canada, the UK and Ireland. Once again, these are first-come, first-served, so grab them now -- previous codes for the U.S. were snapped up in a matter of hours.
A few reminders about promo codes:
The codes below will not work for users in any countries other than Canada, the UK and Ireland.
If you’re having any trouble when trying to use the codes, make sure your TouchPad is running the latest system software and App Catalog (check the “System Updates” and “Software Manager” apps on your device for updates).
If you already have a promo code stored in your profile, you may want to spend that balance first. Alternatively, check this article on PreCentral for some tips on getting the most from your promo codes.
Come and get ‘em:
Big Boss (Fair Play Labs, $1.99): Design your “Boss” – a gigantic monster – and attempt to defeat the brave heroes and powerful wizards of WackyLands.
Canada code: kkqnv31706zkdcd
UK code: bnjue28625nuold
Ireland code: ouxoz42742fobln
Camera for TouchPad (Keen Studios, $0.99): Start snapping away, with options for managing your photos and using them with other TouchPad apps.
Canada code: gbtto38014qqmol
UK code: aiswk61753pczck
Ireland code: zwvjl56648zntnm
Glimpse (Inglorious Apps, $5): Amp up your TouchPad multitasking to 11 using this customizable and addictive split-screen interface.
Canada code: ojvdq15477umaqv
UK code: bgaja80086eqgbj
Ireland code: tjayz54321qtpke
Paul A.
App Promo Rules
Eligibility Requirements: HP employees, HP reseller partners, HP customers and HP webOS developer partners are eligible to use the Weekly App Promo codes. Promo participants require a TouchPad with a current functioning user profile; with credit card purchasing enabled. The promo codes above will expire on 9/16/11 at 12:00am PST. Promo codes are available for as long as inventories last.
Customers with an existing promo credit in their account may be unable to redeem these codes, and the price of the app will be deducted from their current credit.
To redeem this offer select the desired app for purchase in the HP App catalog and when prompted enter the promo code. No charges will be made against your credit card, but you will receive a receipt.
The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. Third-party software available separately. Within wireless coverage area only. Requires data services at additional cost. Not all apps available on all devices.
Within wireless coverage area only. Actual speeds may vary. Email, mobile number, and related information required for setup and activation. Required data sold separately; unlimited plan recommended and may be required. Not all web content may be available. All screen images simulated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, got free apps, first post .
Thanks Realistpm for the heads up I was able to get all three for both myself and my wifes touchpad.
Thanks Guys.
Many Thanks, Glimpse looks interesting.
The camera app might come in handy for something.
Ok guys found this link for you UK guys and girls
Get your free tags
http://www.sony-promotions.com/xperia/
They are only available to 02 customers only.
Dont get why sony didnt just include a couple with all Xperia S's so we could at least try it out.
dibdin said:
They are only available to 02 customers only.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I filled in a form on that site. It did not stress it was for O2 only
dragon546 said:
I filled in a form on that site. It did not stress it was for O2 only
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's in the t&c's and limited time offer as well :-(
Unfortunately once they check your details they'll send a email back stating o2 customers only
jaseukuk said:
Unfortunately once they check your details they'll send a email back stating o2 customers only
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine said imei was invalid and to double check. I sent a screenshot of it but not heard back yet. I also emailed customer support asking if the offer will be extended to other networks but not heard off them yet either.
Sent from my LT26i using Tapatalk
i bought mine from o2 online and they are saying my imei is not valid.
replied saying my phone is locked to o2 and o2 branded, not heard back from them yet
A bit like Tesco's iPads
This whole story smells a little like the recent scandal with the Tesco offer to sell the new iPad 3 for £49.99
For those who don't know it, due to a 'computer'(?) error, Tesco advertised the wrong price (a 90% discount), a lot of people ordered - and were told that Tesco will not supply at this price. It is still hotly debated in the (social and mainstream) media.
In this case there isn't a price error - just a poorly designed promotion site where the O2 condition is buried in a separate PDF 'Terms and conditions' document (which, naturally, nobody reads) and is not mentioned anywhere on the actual promotion page. Many people - yours truly included - naively filled the form, only to be told they are not eligible.
Despite the 'Sony' domain, this is not Sony - they have their epic gaffes but cannot be so unprofessional. The UK promotion is outsourced (possibly by O2) to an outfit called 'Mad About Handling Ltd' run by a couple, Annabel and Angus Gilmour. Their 'professionalism' shines in that form and website - and in the subsequent handling of complaints.
Some victims may wish to run a retaliation campaign on Twitter and Facebook - like the Tesco crowd, who are currently causing serious reputation damage to the retailer. I wouldn't bother, though -
Just ignore!
maistora said:
This whole story smells a little like the recent scandal with the Tesco offer to sell the new iPad 3 for £49.99
For those who don't know it, due to a 'computer'(?) error, Tesco advertised the wrong price (a 90% discount), a lot of people ordered - and were told that Tesco will not supply at this price. It is still hotly debated in the (social and mainstream) media.
In this case there isn't a price error - just a poorly designed promotion site where the O2 condition is buried in a separate PDF 'Terms and conditions' document (which, naturally, nobody reads) and is not mentioned anywhere on the actual promotion page. Many people - yours truly included - naively filled the form, only to be told they are not eligible.
Despite the 'Sony' domain, this is not Sony - they have their epic gaffes but cannot be so unprofessional. The UK promotion is outsourced (possibly by O2) to an outfit called 'Mad About Handling Ltd' run by a couple, Annabel and Angus Gilmour. Their 'professionalism' shines in that form and website - and in the subsequent handling of complaints.
Some victims may wish to run a retaliation campaign on Twitter and Facebook - like the Tesco crowd, who are currently causing serious reputation damage to the retailer. I wouldn't bother, though -
Just ignore!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This isnt anything to try and catch people out, on the launch of the Xperia S, stock in O2 stores was supposed to come with 4 SmartTags in the box but Sony weren't able to do so in time for the launch offer, so customers were told to go to that site to redeem the offer. All stock in O2 stores now should come with 4 SmartTags in the box.
maistora said:
This whole story smells a little like the recent scandal with the Tesco offer to sell the new iPad 3 for £49.99
For those who don't know it, due to a 'computer'(?) error, Tesco advertised the wrong price (a 90% discount), a lot of people ordered - and were told that Tesco will not supply at this price. It is still hotly debated in the (social and mainstream) media.
In this case there isn't a price error - just a poorly designed promotion site where the O2 condition is buried in a separate PDF 'Terms and conditions' document (which, naturally, nobody reads) and is not mentioned anywhere on the actual promotion page. Many people - yours truly included - naively filled the form, only to be told they are not eligible.
Despite the 'Sony' domain, this is not Sony - they have their epic gaffes but cannot be so unprofessional. The UK promotion is outsourced (possibly by O2) to an outfit called 'Mad About Handling Ltd' run by a couple, Annabel and Angus Gilmour. Their 'professionalism' shines in that form and website - and in the subsequent handling of complaints.
Some victims may wish to run a retaliation campaign on Twitter and Facebook - like the Tesco crowd, who are currently causing serious reputation damage to the retailer. I wouldn't bother, though -
Just ignore!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tesco are suffering serious damage to their reputation over it? I really doubt anybody truly cares as long as they can get everything they want under one roof still.
As for the smart tag promotion, the address for the site was given to customers instore at o2, so there is no logical reason why anyone from another UK network would get the address and try to apply unless your network provided you with the promotional leaflet. So nobody was hiding the o2 clause in the t&c's, it is there, because the offer is only open to o2.
The two stories couldn't really be further apart.
I should point out that I do agree that it is stupid that it is just open to o2 customers. Why have the feature if you won't let everyone use it?!
Not sure if this is in the right place, but here goes -
I'm interested in upgrading to a X+, but wondering if there's any benefit to buying from a merchant like Costco (which generally offers enhanced warranties, and other value-added services), as opposed to upgrading either online via my AT&T account, or at a store in person. Not sure if Costco does anything 'extra' for phones the way they do for other electronics like TVs. Just thought I'd ask.
Thanks in advance!
BillTheCat said:
Not sure if this is in the right place, but here goes -
I'm interested in upgrading to a X+, but wondering if there's any benefit to buying from a merchant like Costco (which generally offers enhanced warranties, and other value-added services), as opposed to upgrading either online via my AT&T account, or at a store in person. Not sure if Costco does anything 'extra' for phones the way they do for other electronics like TVs. Just thought I'd ask.
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i bought it online via the att website. 199 was the total charge. no tax. I live in california where the tax is 8.75%( of the original price). so i saved about 50$ buying it online instead of the store.
Hello,
What is a typical pricing for a paid app distributed preinstalled on Android devices?
For example, let's say I have an app for sale at $3 on the Play Store, and a distributor wants to sell 100,000 devices with my app preloaded. What would be a typical price per app?
Thanks!
I am not very sure about how much, but as far as i read in other places its not much, may be, 5 cents per install ...and in some cases i heared about 20 cents
take in consideration that preloaded installs payment is muuuch lower than selling the app...as its suppose to be very high preinstalation numbers.
Sorry Google Play Music subscribers. It looks like you won’t be getting an advertised three month credit when you purchase a new LG Nexus 5X or Huawei Nexus 6P. In the terms for the Play Nexus 90 promotion, it says the following:
“The Offer is only open to residents in the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Austria, Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Switzerland, Belgium, Norway, Poland, Greece, Japan, Australia and New Zealand (each an “Eligible Territory”) who:
1. have purchased an Nexus 6P or Nexus 5X in a Eligible Territory (“Phone”) between September 29, 2015 and midnight Pacific Standard Time on April 18, 2017; and
2. at the time the Offer is redeemed: (i) are not current Google Play Music subscribers; (ii) have not been Google Play Music subscribers in the past 12 months; and/or (iii) have not participated in a Google Play Music trial in the past 12 months.”
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In past cases, even as recently as the Nexus 6, current subscribers would get a credit towards their bill. I personally have a credit until December due to buying a Nexus 6 and I’ve been a subscriber since the service begun a few years ago.
Definitely disappointing but probably not something that will keep many people from purchasing the phone. If you’ve only used the free version of the service it appears that you’ll still be able to redeem the offer and get three free months.
http://www.androidguys.com/2015/10/03/current-subscribers-wont-receive-a-google-play-music-credit-with-a-new-nexus-purchase
Ugh
Makes absolutely no sense!
Existing customers get nothing.
And because I'm in the UK, I don't even get the $50 Google Play credit that everyone gets in the states either.
It's bad enough we pay soooo much more for the device aswell!
.... Thanks for nothing Google! (Literally)
I'm not even planning on taking advantage of it. 90% of my music listening is on the subway, streaming doesn't work for me.
Thats disappointing for sure..
Just create a new gmail. Should work and since you can have multiple accounts on a device it won't impact you. I did this with Nexus 6 promotion last year
[hfm] said:
I'm not even planning on taking advantage of it. 90% of my music listening is on the subway, streaming doesn't work for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can create playlists and then select to download them to your device for offline use. Any future songs added to that list will auto-download on your device when you have data (you can select it to only happen on Wi-Fi).
I was planning on doing something similar with my car. There is an after market android head unit (not android auto) that I was looking at and I would put Play Music on it and make a playlist for the car and have it auto-download there. When the car is in my driveway it gets Wi-Fi and would download the music before I left
[hfm said:
;1975325]I'm not even planning on taking advantage of it. 90% of my music listening is on the subway, streaming doesn't work for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can download it for offline playback
i don't know what's so outrageous about this. i know you mention something about being able to take advantage of such offers before, but that's never been the case for me. Previous offers bundled with other nexus devices and chromebooks have been off limits to me as an existing subscriber. the only thing they've consistently allowed was google drive storage bonuses. ymmv but it's hardly shocking
WoodroweBones said:
You can create playlists and then select to download them to your device for offline use. Any future songs added to that list will auto-download on your device when you have data (you can select it to only happen on Wi-Fi).
I was planning on doing something similar with my car. There is an after market android head unit (not android auto) that I was looking at and I would put Play Music on it and make a playlist for the car and have it auto-download there. When the car is in my driveway it gets Wi-Fi and would download the music before I left
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pilz said:
You can download it for offline playback
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm just extremely anal about my music collection. I like organizing it on my NAS so I can put it on any device I feel like with a simple copy on my local WiFi. I also have Amazon prime (where I buy all my mp3s anyway for a large number of years) so I'm already paying for being able to stream a decent chunk of my purchases and whatever Amazon throws in for free in Prime from time to time if I want to stream something on my laptop that I don't actually "own" in a rare case. I don't need yet another music service I will rarely want to use. I like having full control over my mp3s. I definitely see the draw for people that like to use it or if you don't have a music collection at all. But I've got like hundreds of gigabytes of music that ripped from my CD's (which I rarely buy anymore, but I've still got a ton of them) and purchased from Amazon MP3. I've still got all my CD's going back to like the late 80s (I'm old..relatively..)
bummer. i like free credits.
but this phone is so awesome, i'd buy it again. credits be damned.
AS someone said, its pretty trivial to create a new google account and use it for music for the 3 months.
indianajonze said:
i don't know what's so outrageous about this. i know you mention something about being able to take advantage of such offers before, but that's never been the case for me. Previous offers bundled with other nexus devices and chromebooks have been off limits to me as an existing subscriber. the only thing they've consistently allowed was google drive storage bonuses. ymmv but it's hardly shocking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then credit me the 3 months of service in my google account.
Pisses me off. We should get something.
EVOme said:
Pisses me off. We should get something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do you feel entitled to this?
The world is full of "for new subscribers only" type offers. The concept is well understood. The terms were posted when you purchased the device. What ever Google did previously with other releases is not relevant.
I ask because I don't understand the sense of entitlement and anger people expresses in this thread over what amounts to less than $30.
Elnrik said:
Why do you feel entitled to this?
The world is full of "for new subscribers only" type offers. The concept is well understood. The terms were posted when you purchased the device. What ever Google did previously with other releases is not relevant.
I ask because I don't understand the sense of entitlement and anger people expresses in this thread over what amounts to less than $30.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, it sucks when companies screw current customers in order to gain new customers. We've contributed to the success of the service and when there's incentives to be had, you'd think current loyal customers saw something from it. One month free would be fine with me....something to say thanks for being a customer as well as thanks for spending $590 on our new phone. I don't feel i'm owed anything, btw....just think there should be something for us all.
Elnrik said:
Why do you feel entitled to this?
The world is full of "for new subscribers only" type offers. The concept is well understood.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How about the $50 Google Play Credit & the fact it's only U.S only.
You don't think this is unfair?
Especially when everyone outside of the states pay a much higher price for the devices already.
Would have been nice to have credit towards my current service - but doesn't surprise me they aren't doing this. Also, would be nice to buy a case with the $50 - Is what it is, not why I bought the phone anyways.
EVOme said:
Well, it sucks when companies screw current customers in order to gain new customers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, that's what I don't understand though. From my perspective, I'm not being screwed. You're not being screwed. Google hasn't increased the price of the service, or deleted our music libraries, or whatever just to be spiteful or to screw you. Nothing is changing for us. Google is just offering new customers a little incentive to use their product.
chrisjcks said:
How about the $50 Google Play Credit & the fact it's only U.S only.
You don't think this is unfair?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't understand the decision, but I wouldn't call it unfair.
chrisjcks said:
Especially when everyone outside of the states pay a much higher price for the devices already.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's examine that.
In the States the 32GB black Nexus 6P costs $499. According to Google, the current conversion rates makes that 324.89 British Pounds.
In the UK, the same phone costs what? 449 pounds?
449 pounds converts to $689.62 usd.
$689.62
-499.00
=You're getting screwed.
BUT - considering I have no idea what other costs go into selling the thing in the UK (tariffs, taxes, etc), I couldn't say for sure that this is completely unfair. Easy to look at it and say it is though.