iPad 2's Biggest Enemy May Be Apple's Subscription Plan

28.02.2011

Upsetting iPad app developers, especially ones in the popular magazine and news category, is a risky strategy for Apple. Most big publishers, however, will likely take the hits. They're eyeing Apple's 15-million-and-growing iPad user base and lion's share of the tablet market. After all, what alternatives do they have?

Shortly after Apple brought its in-app subscription service to bear, Google seized the opportunity an announced Google One Pass, a subscription service with only a 10 percent cut of transactions. Even better for publishers, Google One Pass gives them more access to customer information; Apple customers must opt-in to give their information to publishers on the iPad.

Let's face it, Apple has all the advantages in the super-hot tablet market and could have squashed competitors on price alone. But Apple left the door ajar with its in-app subscription service, and Google slipped in.

When it comes to pitting, say, the Motorola Xoom against the Apple iPad, what matters most? An imperceptible difference in resolution? A slightly faster processor? Or which of your favorite newspapers and magazines are available?