Google's Eric Schmidt throws down the gauntlet

[ITHURTSWHENIP]

You don't need a credit card to buy Android apps. I know at least on Tmobile and At&t there is an option to purchase apps and have then charged to your cell phone bill. I bought 4 apps yesterday using this method and 2 more using my credit card and both times it could not have been easier, just click purchase, pick the payment method, and click buy.

I don't see a problem with generating spererate receipts either, it's not like getting two emails instead of one is an inconvenience and it makes it easier to track your purchases.

Depends on where you live. In Europe where i am, you can only purchase by using a credit card. Hell we only got the market last october lol

 

[MrX8503]

Please explain how Apple automatically has someone's credit card.

I know what you're trying to say, but it's a pretty ridiculous point. At some point, with either Apple or Android, you have to enter your credit card info, so that's not a positive or negative for either platform.

During Apple's MP3 player market domination starting in 2001, there were already millions of credit cards that Apple had already obtained. The same can't really be said for Google Checkout. Also this is during a time where iTunes giftcards are common place, which creates a bigger incentive to buy. Users could also buy anything else like movies, tv shows, music etc as well from the same outlet.

Adding iCloud to the mix, if the apps are universal, it'll automatically shoot to your iPad saving one less download/purchase. I'm not saying these points are a huge advantage, but its an advantage nonetheless. I don't think anyone knows for sure really why iOS generates more revenue via paid apps, but this could be one of the many reasons why.

EDIT: Another thing to think about is fragmentation. iOS developers are probably more comfortable in reaching more users with their app, whereas on Android it'll only reach a fraction of its users. Its similar to 3rd party vendors making peripherals such as docks/cases/speakers etc. for the iPhone. You can find just about any accessory, but this cannot be said for Android.