Apple supports app bundle sales. Is it a good deal?

Apple announced changes to its App Store, including app bundling. But will Apple's latest tweak save you money?

Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference kicked off this week, and while we didn't see the budget iMac or Retina-based MacBook Air we had hoped for, the subdued event did usher in some major changes for Cupertino's infamous App Store.

With 1.2 million iOS apps, it is no surprise Apple wants to make it easier for consumers to purchase and browse through its App Store. One of the ways it's hoping to do that is with its new Explore tab. This tab will allow potential buyers to dig deep into the App Store's offerings, discovering both popular and trending apps. Likewise, consumers can now watch video previews of apps before making their purchase, a feature Android users have been enjoying for quite some time. 

Of interest for deal hunters though is the announcement that the App Store will now support the sale of app bundles. While this is a relatively small development, in theory, it could mean better discounts for the App Store. For instance, a developer could bundle their most frequently downloaded apps and sell them at a single, discounted price.

It's Only a Good Deal if You Actually Want What You Buy

While we'd all love to save money on our app purchases, it's important to remember that not all bundles represent a good value. So while you may feel like you're getting more for your dollar, if you're only actually interested one app in that bundle you just purchased, you could easily wind up spending more money than you should have.

We recently spotted this phenomenon with Steam sales. While they typically bundle various games for one appealing price, a recent study revealed that gamers don't typically play all of the games they purchase. (For more on this trend, read our feature on the seductive charm of the Steam sale.) So while we may think bundles mean better deals, it really depends on how much use consumers get from the bundles they purchase.

Ultimately, the App Store's fresh coat of paint should make it easier for consumers to find and purchase the apps they want. Just remember that Apple is doing this to increase sales and downloads, and not necessarily because it wants to give buyers a better deal.

Louis Ramirez is a senior features writer for DealNews.com, where this article first appeared: http://dealnews.com/features/Apple-Now-Supports-App-Bundle-Sales-But-Shoppers-Should-Be-Wary/1067424.html