iTunes 10.5 Beta 9 Set to Introduce App Rentals?
New reports about the iTunes 10.5 Beta 9 reveal that users may soon be able to rent applications from Apple's online store.
Rumors of the feature came about after The Tech Erra found a section of code from the iTunes Beta 9 version. This could possibly mean a new system of distributing applications to developers and users with iPhone's.
The messages displayed in the code seem to indicate that apps are set for removal from one's memory at the end of the rental period: "Apps are automatically removed from your iTunes library at the end of the rental period" and "This app will be deleted from your computer."
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The code did not reveal if the rented apps would come with a fee or be free. Here is the entire code that was found and its references to renting apps:
"510.036" = "Apps are automatically removed from your iTunes library at the end of the rental period.";
"510.037" = "This app will be deleted from your computer.";
"510.038" = "These apps will be deleted from your computer.";
"510.039" = "App";
Amazon's Android Appstore currently has a structure similar to this, which is a try-before-you-buy type of program. Apple's App Store does feature "Lite" and "Free" versions of some apps that are essentially free demo versions of popular titles. If the rental system for apps becomes a reality, Apple's previous "Lite" and "Free" systems could be done away with entirely.
Some say that they hope app developers will be the ones who get to determine what apps can be rented instead of Apple.
Apple has yet to comment on this piece of leaked news.
Apple's upcoming press conference, set for Tuesday, is expected to be the official debut of the company's new "iPhone."
