Developers currently use four main business models when marketing their applications. All models except the free download model can lead directly to revenue.
The models are:
1. Free download, ideal for supporting a separate business model
2. Paid download
3. In-App Advertising (can apply to paid or free downloads)
4. In-App Purchasing (can apply to paid or free downloads)
In the early stages of the app economy's evolution, paid download has been and continues to be the most common model for developers seeking to monetize their apps. In this model, the developer sets a price that users must pay to download the app, with revenue being shared by the developer and the store. The Nokia Developer Distribute section contains detail on pricing, revenue share and other considerations for this model.
Creating revenue through paid downloads remains a compelling option for monetizing apps and at the same time additional revenue models are becoming available.
The hybrid model of driving revenue after the download will play an increasingly large role for many developers in future, and Nokia is introducing solutions for In-App Advertising and In-App Purchasing such as the new Nokia Asha 303, the first Series 40 phone designed to support In-App Purchasing.
Virtual goods, In-App Advertising, and subscriptions combined with large operator billing footprint are at the forefront of these new models.
Technical support channels for developers
FREE:
Example code:
Monetization examples
Nokia Developer Discussion Boards:
Monetizing your application (general)
Monetization APIs (code implementation)
Nokia Developer Wiki:
In app advertising & QML app
Subscriptions with IAP
Installing IAP on Qt SDK 1.2
