ACT Statement on FTC-Apple In-App Purchase Settlement

ACT Executive Director Morgan Reed issued the following statement in response to today’s FTC settlement with Apple, Inc.:

It’s a bit surprising that the FTC sought to pursue a case against a company that had already offered a refund to every consumer who registered a complaint. This agreement clarifies that the modifications Apple made to its in-app transaction process ensures greater consumer awareness at the moment of purchase. We respect the FTC’s ability to go after bad actors, and hope the Commissioners will focus their enforcement action on those who are not providing the level of transparency consumers require.

In light of today’s action, ACT announces that it will provide parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals with resources about in-app purchases through Moms With Apps. Apple already has many features available that allow for parental control when it comes to in-app purchases and other app features. Knowing how to use these restrictions, puts parents in control of what their child can and cannot do on a device. Education on device restrictions, parental controls, and app transparency will help parents understand the rapidly changing innovations in the technology space.

Opportunities for app developers in the educational space abound. With tablets in schools, at home, and even in the doctors office, most children have access to apps on a daily basis. We must preserve the pace of innovation all the while encouraging those developers that are transparent and trustworthy.