The Federal Trade Commission apparently has some questions regarding Android’s in-app purchasing and is investigating Google regarding their latest feature.
“Let me assure you we will look closely at the current industry practice with respect to the marketing and delivering of these types of applications,†FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitzwrote to Rep. Edward Markey in a letter this week. After Markey and Sen. Amy Klobuchar requested that the FTC look into Google and Apple for their in-app purchase features, the agency set its inquiry into motion. (Android Apps)
With Android embracing carrier billing, the FTC is probably concerned about users getting scammed by third party developers (although truth be told they can always request a refund).
Both Google and Apple already have procedures in place to protect consumers just in case they get scammed, although with the FTC breathing down both their necks we may see stronger policies to protect consumers in the future.
Note: Surprisingly the FTC isn’t also going after RIM (who also offers in app purchasing for Blackberry users), although this could be due to the fact that RIM is head quartered in Canada (as opposed to the US) while Apple and Google are based within the America’s borders.
Originally posted on February 23, 2011 @ 1:23 pm