Google, Apple ordered by Taipei City to offer 7-day free trials on apps or face fines

Local branches of Apple and Google stores in Taipei City have been given two weeks to offer free 7-day trials on apps that run on their mobile platforms or face financial penalties.

According to Yeh Ching-yuan, Taipei City’s director of Law and Regulation Commission, “If the two companies fail to meet the requirement by the deadline, they may be slapped with fines of up to NT$1.5 million (US$52,265).”

Currently, both companies are in violation of Taiwan’s Consumer Protection Act, a consumer protection that requires companies to have return and refund policies available for all purchases that last a minimum of 7 days. They have a 15-day grace period to comply

Neither Apple nor Google take legal responsibility for products created by freelancers and 3rd parties that run on their platform, but Yeh says, “Such a claim is an irresponsible business practice.”

The metropolitan area of Taipei City is home to over 7 million people.