Abstract
To increase the distribution of their apps, software developers often enter into agreements with mobile device original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to distribute their apps, e.g., pre-installed on devices shipped by the OEM. OEMs control device software, including the home screen, and pre-install apps on devices upon upfront payment by the app developer. Smaller app developers may not be able to reach agreements with OEMs due to the cost of the sale, e.g., the upfront payment.
The techniques of this disclosure enable OEMs and app developers to reach agreements for the OEM to distribute an app for low or no upfront fee in exchange of a percentage of future ad revenue generated by the app. Total ad revenue generated is often split between an ad network and an app developer, and in this case the OEM can either (i) take a share of the ad revenue portion typically provided to the app developer, (i) take a share of the ad revenue portion due to the ad network, (iii) take a share of both, or (iv) play the role of ad network or app developer while also taking a share of the other party’s portion. The techniques ensure that the agreements are enforceable and protect both the OEM and the app developer against fraud or malicious action.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Dukellis, John, "Verified revenue sharing between distributor OEM and app developers", Technical Disclosure Commons, (January 14, 2019)
https://www.tdcommons.org/dpubs_series/1880