Apple has announced the introduction of its Volume Purchase Program for developers in as many as nine new countries. This program will now allow app developers to sell their products in bulk to businesses and educational institutions.
The Cupertino-based company stated that it will be extending volume purchasing for iOS apps beyond the U.S. for the first time. The program will also be available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
What’s more, developers who wish to take part in the program can offer their apps at a discounted rate for businesses and schools that buy in bulk. Apart from the special pricing, developers can also work on specialized B2B apps for customers that are part of the Volume Purchasing Program for Business.
“Offer your customers peace of mind, with a secure way to distribute custom B2B apps. When you create a custom app, it can only be sold privately to authorized purchasers you identify through iTunes Connect,” the official page states. “You can target apps for release on specific dates when you submit them or adjust the release date after your apps are approved. Once apps are approved, customers can sign in and download apps through the Volume Purchase Program website.”
Educational institutions could also benefit from the program as developers can offer both apps and e-books at reduced pricing on purchases of 20 units or more. The normal sales tax attached to the apps will be removed if the school has an tax-exempt status.
