In-app payments hit Google's Android Market

Google have announced that in-app payments can now be added to Android apps by developers.

Having proved extremely lucrative for both Apple and developers on the App Store since its inclusion in 2009, it offers further ways for app designers to make money from their creations.

“Today, we’re pleased to announce the launch of Android Market In-app Billing to developers and users,” said Google’s Eric Chu.

“As an Android developer, you will now be able to publish apps that use In-app Billing and your users can make purchases from within your apps.

“In-app Billing gives you more ways to monetise your apps with try-and-buy, virtual goods, upgrades, and other billing models. If you aren’t yet familiar with In-app Billing, we encourage you to learn more about it.”

The first apps to make use of the system will be Tap Tap Revenge, Comics, Gun Bros, Deer Hunter Challenge HD, WSOP3 and Dungeon Defenders: FW Deluxe. However Google also have plans to add the system to their web app services, with a roll-out planned for May.