iphone app - Custom B2B Apps

Question

From this page (http://developer.apple.com/programs/ios/distribute.html) I've read this

Custom B2B Apps

You can also offer custom B2B apps directly to your business customers who have a Volume Purchase Program account. A custom B2B app provides a unique, tailored solution to address a specific business need or requirement.

Does anyone have any more details about this? i have an app idea that is specific for a individual company, say I am building an app for Company ABC, this app is solely for company ABC & no one else, how do I distribute such an an app (to Company ABC) & can I charge a monthly subscription for this app?

Thanks kb

Answer 1

B2B Apps need to go through Apples review just like normal apps do, but they will appear in some sort of a private store to which you may grant your client access. It is my understanding that, aside from that, normal rules apply.

That means you might be able to offer In App Purchases and lock most of the app down, unless the user purchases a subscription.

I do not know however if subscriptions can be purchased via the Volume Purchase Program.

As a rule of thumb, before entering "uncharted waters" by just developing your idea, you should just contact Apple about what you like to do. Ultimately it is their decision what they will approve, so I wouldn't rely on the opinion of someone on the internet before putting too much effort into it.

You should also be aware that the Volume Purchase Program is available in the United States only.

Answer 2

Have you seen this:

http://www.apple.com/business/vpp/

"Custom B2B Apps for Business In addition to offering volume purchasing of apps in the App Store, the Volume Purchase Program provides your business with an easy way to procure custom B2B apps built by third-party developers. Custom B2B apps are built to address a unique business need, and therefore are not available to the general public for purchase. "

Yes you can create an app for Company ABC only, and restrict only them as purchasers. I don't think you can make it a subscription though. Oh, and it's US businesses only.