Amazon has launched some virtual currency this morning. The currency is called Amazon Coins and they were originally announced back in early-February. The Amazon Coins will be used by Kindle Fire users and to get things started, Amazon will be giving users 500 free Coins. Of course, there are options to buy additional Coins. Plus we should also mention that Kindle Fire users will not be required to use these Coins.
Amazon has said the Coins will be an easy way to buy apps and in-app items on your Kindle Fire. They are also touting these are being good for developers. In this case, Amazon has said the Coins will provide “another opportunity to drive traffic, downloads and increased monetization.” Which brings the main point here — the price of the Coins.
As you will see in the below image, Amazon has options to purchase Coins in increments of 500, 1000, 2500, 5000 and 10000. The price (at present) is $4.80, $9.50, $23.00, $45.00 and $90.00. Basically, you will get a little bit of a discount for purchasing in bulk. The nice part here, the Coins are easily available by way of the regular Amazon website. Aside from being an easy way for Kindle Fire users to make purchases, we see these as a nice option for parents as they can use the Coins as a way to limit and control purchases on the Kindle Fire.
The Coins will not expire, they do not come with any additional fees and they will be deposited in your account right after purchase. For curious developers, you will get the same 70/30 split whether your users pay with Coins or a traditional credit/debit card. Otherwise, the Coins can be used on the device or the computer if you are using a 7-inch or 8.9-inch Kindle Fire HD as well as a 2nd generation Kindle Fire.
Alternatively, those with a 1st generation Kindle Fire will need to make their purchases from the Amazon website and then download the app or game to their device. Bottom line here, Amazon Coins are now available. And even if you don’t plan on using them in the future, if you are a Kindle Fire user you should make sure to take advantage of that free 500 coin offer.
SOURCE: Amazon
So….essentially, it’s just like the “points” that you rack up with an Amazon (Chase) Visa card.
Nothing to see here, move along.