Apple Sees a Publishing Backlash in Germany Due to Discounted iTunes Giftcards

One of the ways Apple has solidified its position as one of the dominant market forces with its iTunes ecosystem is with the savvy marketing of giftcards. Not only does it make a good gift, but also allows people who do not have access to a credit card to purchase ebooks, games, and apps. Recently, in order to stimulate sales, companies like Walmart are offering $100.00 giftcards for only $80, which gives people an opportunity to pick up some books for free. This is not going over well with publishers in Germany and they have sent cease and desist letters to make their case known. This has resulted in discounted iTunes cards to NOT be allowed to purchase ebooks in Germany at all.

In Germany there are laws in place that protect small bookstores from bigger companies deeply discounting books. It is under this legislation that Apple has to cave in and respect the German publishing industry. You can still use discounted iTunes cards in most other markets, but just not in Germany.

Michael Kozlowski (2934 Posts)

Michael Kozlowski is the Editor in Chief of Good e-Reader. He has been writing about electronic readers and technology for the last four years. His articles have been picked up by major and local news sources and websites such as the Huffington Post, CNET and more. Michael frequently travels to international events such as IFA, Computex, CES, Book Expo and a myriad of others. If you have any questions about any of his articles, please send Michael Kozlowski an email to michael@goodereader.com

Related posts:

1. Germany’s leading online self-publishing platform XinXii goes international
2. How to copy eBooks to the Apple iPad via iTunes and iBooks
3. Pottermore Ousts iTunes for Audiobook Rights
4. What Does It Mean for Aggregator Companies if Apple Launches Their Self-Publishing Program?
5. Bloomsbury Publishing Sees Exponential Growth Due to eBooks
6. Give the Gift of eBooks with Google Play Giftcards