In the past, mobile development platforms have allowed users to make in-app purchases of “virtual” goods–things like access to more game levels, virtual currency or other items that can be used to enhance gameplay. However, Amazon is taking in-app purchases a step farther by allowing in-app purchases of physical items that will be delivered to the user’s home. The first mobile development firm to take advantage of the new program will be Activision, which will sell toys related to its Skylanders children’s game.
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos said he’s amazed by how many games Kindle Fire owners have purchased. The company is adding a new games tab to the tablet’s home screen.