Updated February 25, 2010 at 8:06 a.m. PST: Update and correction to reflect that the app is now free and the prize is up to $1,000 daily.
According to a report by RegHardware, Apple is now allowing developers to add contests, lotteries, or sweepstakes to iPhone and iPod Touch apps, thanks to a new SDK rule, if those contests follow some strict guidelines:
- Developers must be the sole sponsor of a promotion.
- The app promotion must comply with all local laws.
- Developers must clearly state that Apple has no sponsorship or responsibility for the in-app promotion.
This new rule could result in an influx of iPhone apps focused on winning money. One such app, Ka-Ching (iTunes link), has already appeared after previous rejections from the App Store. In this case, after purchasing the app for $.99, you push the app’s only button for a chance to win a $1,000 daily prize.
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Should Apple allow gambling, sweepstakes, or lottery apps on the iPhone?(answers)