It’s been a long time in coming, and now Google has finally released the in-app payment API for web app developers. This new set of code serves as a boon for the Chrome app development community by allowing them to set up a simple way to receive payments, whether for premium versions or bonus content within their current application framework.
In-App Payments were demonstrated at Google I/O using Graphicly, a comic browser and viewer. However, Graphicly is just one of many major apps that will be using In-App Payments now that the API is available to developers. Other groups include Rovio, who will be releasing the “Mighty Eagle” for purchase as premium content. However, while the API is available to developers, it will not see full release until later in the Summer of 2011. Google representatives state that they are hoping to receive additional feedback before this official full release.
Google also used the opportunity to highlight the continued development and expansion of the Chrome Web Store. Of note, the Web Store now has support for 41 languages, partially in preparation for availability in 15 additional countries later this year. Those countries include France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Poland, and Spain, and developers in the selected nations will be able to commence app development immediately; the apps will be stored and released once the localized versions of the Chrome Web Store go live.
Google’s continued focus on their web store, especially through incentives for app developers, demonstrate the high priority of web apps for the company’s plans. Beyond increasing potential revenue streams for Google itself, the Web Store is a vital part of the success of both the Chrome Browser and the upcoming Chrome Operating System.
[via the Chromium Blog]
