Apple has introduced a new feature that allows you to pre-order apps from its App Store.
Announced on Monday, the change allows developers to make new iOS 11 apps available for pre-order up to 90 days before their release.
While it's not a huge change, and while most users probably won't be too excited about the pre-order feature, it could still be big news for game developers.
The iOS 11 update to Apple's App Store introduced a new tab just for games (in fact, it's the only category with its own tab), so it's safe to say that it's a priority for the platform. Games like Nintendo's Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, with its huge hype and staggered release date, would be a perfect candidate for pre-order. Then, the highly anticipated release of Harry Potter: Wizards Unite - a new mobile game from Warner Bros and Niantic, could prove to be a prime candidate for the pre-order feature.
Before the app is released, users will be able to view the product page and pre-order the app (regardless of whether it is a free or paid app). Once the app is released, you will be notified and the app will automatically download to your iPhone. If you paid for the app, you will be charged before the download.
Developers will be able to submit an update and change availability or pricing during the pre-order period. If the price changes during this period, you will be charged the lower amount, so there are no additional price increases.
It's a pretty big win for developers, who will be able to track pre-orders and see when the app will be released. And customers won't miss any release dates.
Pre-orders for apps will start appearing after December 11th.
