Free isn’t really free anymore, is it? That’s the gist of what the European Commission said to both Google and Apple for the better part of this year. Earlier this year, the EC successfully persuaded Google to remove the word “free” for supposedly free games and applications that offer in-app purchases.
Because of EC pressure, Google altered the label of “Top Free Apps” to instead say “Top Apps,” and changed its “Top Free Games” section to simply “Top Games” for countries in the EU.
Similarly, just today – November 20th, the European Commission has also succeeded in forcing tech giant, Apple, to make small, but notable changes in regards to how the company labels both its iOS and Mac applications, by way of changing the word on the download button from “free” to “get.”
Read more details regarding Apple’s minor, yet major changes to their game and app labeling system below:
Apple Follows in Google’s Footsteps Regarding “Free” Games/Apps
According to the European Commission, games or applications labeled as “free” have the potential to confuse and mislead customers in regards to the “true cost” of the respective game or app. Furthermore, the EC stated that “freemium” or “free-2-play” games should not directly advertise in-app purchases because of their appeal to children.
Apple has not been totally complacent in regards to “freemium” games, earlier this year the company stated the following:
“Over the last year we made sure any app which enables customers to make in-app purchases is clearly marked. We’ve also created a Kids Section on the App Store with even stronger protections to cover apps designed for children younger than 13.”
Additionally, Apple said it would be rolling out even more features in iOS8 that would strengthen existing safeguards.
However. currently, Apple’s Top Charts sections seem to be unaffected by the change – seeing asthere are still “Top Free Apps” and “Top Paid Apps” sections in both iOS and Mac stores.
What are your thoughts on this news? While it may not be “hardcore” gamer news, it is definitely interesting, and may play a factor in the future of “freemium” or “free-2-play” games not just on the Apple Store. Do you agree with that statement? Why or why not?
Let us know in the comments section below! As always, stay tuned to GamerHeadlines.com for the latest in video game and technology news.