Fortumo entices Windows app developers by waiving fees
Direct carrier biller Fortumo was one of the first payment providers to support in-app payments in Windows 8. Now the company is offering an incentive to attract Windows developers: The company has announced that it's waiving its commission for six months for developers who integrate its in-app payment platform into their Windows 8 apps by May 31, 2013.
"Fortumo's solution works well in Windows 8 apps, providing a familiar and easy-to-use interface for users. Making payments only requires the user to have a mobile phone — no additional registration is required," said Martin Koppel, co-founder and chief revenue officer of Fortumo. "The hassle-free, smooth payment process increases conversion, giving developers who have already jumped on Windows 8 a great opportunity to make additional profit from their apps."
John Richards, Microsoft senior director for Windows app marketing, said the Windows Store has seen great traction with developers due to its wide reach. What's more, flexibility in how apps are monetized and the way Microsoft shares revenues gives developers greater potential and control over their revenue, Richards said.
"Through the relationship with Fortumo, there are more opportunities for developers to monetize users in emerging markets," Richards said.
Fortumo connects subscribers to their mobile operators' billing platforms, giving them the option to place purchases on their monthly phone bill. Fortumo is connected to more than 300 mobile operators in 80 countries, reaching more than four billion mobile users worldwide.
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