Amazon grows in-app purchase API to Mac, PC, web apps
updated 01:14 pm EST, Tue January 22, 2013
Allows Amazon accounts to be used for buying virtual goods
Amazon has announced an expansion of its in-app purchasing program for developers to include virtual goods in in Mac, Windows, and web games. Previously the option was restricted to Android/Kindle Fire apps. When the technology is implemented via an API, people playing a game can sign into their Amazon account to pay for virtual content, such as in-game currency.
Amazon has been attempting to integrate itself more deeply into app platforms, mainly via its custom Android storefront. Recently it optimized its MP3 web store for the iPhone, a move that appears to have been aimed at drawing music sales away from Apple's iTunes Store. Amazon can't sell music via a native iOS app without having to give Apple a portion of the revenue.
