Google Play adding Usage-Based Billing subscriptions aimed at AI apps

Google Play has introduced Usage-Based Billing subscriptions, designed to cater to AI applications and other services where consumption varies. According to Google, the "subscription landscape is evolving rapidly" due to the rise of generative AI and increasingly sophisticated app experiences. Users can now expect "usage-based billing" for generative AI apps and other services that charge based on usage.

This "prepaid metered billing" model allows users to automatically top up their balance when it falls below a certain threshold. For businesses and educational institutions, Google has introduced Multi-Quantity Subscription Purchase. This feature enables organizations to make multiple subscription purchases in a single transaction and easily assign them as seats or subscriptions to team members or students.

Furthermore, Mixed Carts capability allows developers to sell auto-renewing subscriptions and one-time products simultaneously. For instance, a business could offer a complete bundle of a subscription and complementary in-app items together, providing powerful upsell opportunities. Cross-Developer Bundling enables developers to create and sell a bundle of two or more complementary subscriptions in their own catalog.

An example is bundling a language-learning app with a travel guide service for a discounted rate, allowing developers to collaborate or combine offerings from different apps for a single purchase.

These Play Store features are either currently available or in the process of rolling out through Google's Early Access Program. Interested parties can learn more by watching 9to5Google on YouTube.