Opera Apps Club Lets Users Rent Paid Android Apps Ala Netflix

Although the idea isn't really original or new, Netflix is nowadays credited for having popularized an old/new business model to the point that any new subscription-based content providing service is labeled as "Netflix-like". And that's not just for the usual culprits like movies and music but even books, games, and, soon, Android apps as well. Opera, the web browser maker who also dabbles in VPNs and smart TVs, has announced the global launch of Opera Apps Club, which lets users "rent" premium Android apps. In other words, like Netflix.

With the half a dozen or more app stores around, some legit and some dubious, you might wonder why Opera is putting up one more. That's because the company has a special affection for emerging markets. One key difference that sets the Opera Apps Club apart from the rest is that you don't need a credit card to pay for apps. It all operates under carrier billing, which is more prevalent in countries with low credit or debit card penetration.

Actually, you don't pay for apps. You pay for a monthly, or even weekly, subscription. Within that period, you will have access to all the paid Android apps and games that you want, no ads, no strings attached. At least until the subscription runs out. For apps that have an outright price, you can install them as if you really bought the app. For those that lock their features behind in-app purchases, Opera Apps Club gives you unlimited IAP money to use for that instead.

For users in target markets, they no longer have to worry about needing a credit card or even a gift card to buy apps, as long as their carrier supports carrier billing. It doesn't even have to be postpaid line. App developers don't even have to lift a finger, as Opera has a wrapper to use for those apps, whether they like to join the club or not. Operators are perhaps the biggest winners, as the money that normally goes to credit card handlers go to them instead. Plus, Opera promises software protection that won't let the installed apps work on non-authorized devices and/or non-paying users.

The Opera Apps Club isn't a new thing either. It is an evolution of Bemobi that Opera acquired last year. That service was in operation in Latin America but will soon spread throughout the world as Opera Apps Club. However, it won't be something end users can download and subscribe to themselves, as it requires a partnership with a local operator. Who those will be and in which markets, Opera isn't saying.

SOURCE: Opera