iPad publishers are now able to sell full subscriptions to their publications within apps, something Apple has rarely allowed in the past. Previously, publishers were limited to selling only single issues of their digital magazine and newspapers. The Daily iPad newspaper does allow for yearly/long term subscriptions, but their free trial period has not expired yet as the app is so new.
But there is concern on how much subscriber information may given to publishers, who want as much as they can get, presumably for better ad targeting and content choices.
From a statement by Apple:
Protecting customer privacy is a key feature of all App Store transactions. Customers purchasing a subscription through the App Store will be given the option of providing the publisher with their name, email address and zip code when they subscribe. The use of such information will be governed by the publisher’s privacy policy rather than Apple’s. Publishers may seek additional information from App Store customers provided those customers are given a clear choice, and are informed that any additional information will be handled under the publisher’s privacy policy rather than Apple’s.
Apple will receive 30% of every subscription sale with 70% going to the publisher. Publishers will also be allowed to sell their apps outside of the iOS platform and on their websites.
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Some of your post makes no sense. I’ve been subscribing to a number of digital magazines through the Zinio app, which existed long before the iPad came to be and has been re-released as an iPad app. Zinio sells a large number of publications which can be purchased through their app or online at their website.