In March, Google temporarily discontinued paid extensions; the tech giant is now planning to suspend paid extensions permanently. Earlier this year, it had suspended publishing of paid extensions because of resource constraints citing COVID-19 pandemic as the reason.
In January, Google noticed fake transactions which aimed at exploiting users. In February, Google removed more than 500 malicious extensions due to ad fraud from the Chrome Web Store. Google will put an end to paid chrome extensions in a phased manner. Google plans to disable free trials also starting from 1 December.
Developers can no longer generate revenue using Chrome Web Store Payments. Developers who are currently making use of Chrome Web Store payments for charges concerning their in-app purchases or extensions will have to shift to other payment options. Effective 1 February 2021, current in-app purchases and items will not be able to levy charges with Chrome Web Store payments.
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In the coming days, developers will not be able to generate new in-app items or paid extensions. Users cannot see the ‘Try Now’ icon in the Chrome Web Store; any request for an in-app free trial will display an error.
Developers who have employed a licensing API to monitor payments also will need to check for another to track user licenses. Developers can use the licencing API only to find out if a user is licensed currently; however, at some point, even this feature will be discontinued.
For any clarifications/feedback on the topic, please contact the writer at bhavana.pn@cleartax.in
Bhavana is a Senior Content Writer handling the GST vertical. She is committed, professional, and has a flair for writing. When away from work, she enjoys watching movies and playing with her son. One thing she can’t resist is SHOPPING! Her favourite quote is: “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”.
