Still waiting on my Merchant Account tokens for existing users...HELP!

AV82 1 month ago

Hello - I've been waiting 10 days for a response to my request for initial tokens for my Garmin Merchant account. I have existing users I need to migrate NOW and my multiple token requests haven't even been acknowledged much less fulfilled. I have a lot more watch faces to migrate over NOW but I need tokens before I can start so I don't alienate my loyal repeat customers.

Please help! Thanks

NomadicDesigns

0 jim_m_58 1 month ago

I look at the whole monetization of existing apps a bit differently. In general, I wouldn't do it. You'll surprise a whole bunch of users that now have to pay for something they may have paid for already in a different way, been using for free for a long time, or already donated something to me like cold drinks. And then there's the whole thing with users that have a device that doesn't support monetization or live in a place where it can't be used. (South Africa for example)

What I'd do instead is publish a new app, with a different AppId, and use monetization there, and in the old app's description, indicate it wouldn't be updated anymore, with a link to the app with monitorization if they want updates.

That way you don't anger any current users, and there is no need for tokens/coupons. It's up to the user to decide if they want to move to the new monetized version

For an app with 1000 users, much less 10k, 100k, or 500k, I can't even imagine handing out tokens to each one. Maybe if it's less than a 100, but even that could burn a bunch of time.

How many tokens did you request?

Maybe Garmin should explain bit more in the docs with advice on migrating existing apps

0 AV82 1 month ago in reply to jim_m_58

Jim - some great points all around. Thank you. I hadn't considered that approach. How would you suggest cutting off new downloads where people expect to pay to get a code? I find many or most users don't actually read any of the details or guidance provided in the write up. Thoughts?

0 jim_m_58 1 month ago in reply to AV82

Most users would be paying, and the only ones that would get a token would be folks like you and your beta testers. It wouldn't be that common.

If you want to hand out a bunch of tokens, then maybe your app shouldn't use monetization

If you turn on monetization in an existing app, I think it's safe to say many users will simply uninstall your app when they see they now have to pay and you'll never hear a word from them.

0 AV82 1 month ago in reply to jim_m_58

I guess I wasn't clear in my question. I have 40+ individual watch faces that have sold in the 15-20 range each. I want to convert everything over from my current 3d party monetization plan to Garmin's plan. I see your point about just republishing the app as a new APP ID. However, if I leave the current version up and just list it as a TRIAL ONLY, how do you think my existing users will take that?

0 jim_m_58 1 month ago in reply to AV82

Try two version on one and see how it goes. 15-20 unique downloads? I doubt many people will notice,.