【1988 Archives】

Apple launched a new feature that lets you pre-order from the App Store.

Announced988 ArchivesMonday, the change allows developers to make new iOS 11 apps available for pre-order up to 90 days before release.

Compared to the App Store's overhaul that Apple revealed in September, it's not a huge change, and while most folks probably won't be too excited to pre-order messaging, fitness or photo apps, this could be big news for game developers.

Apple's iOS 11 App Store update featured a new tab just for games (in fact, it's now the only category with its own tab), so it's safe to say they're a priority for the platform. Games like Nintendo's Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, with its immense hype and staggered release date, would have been a perfect contender for pre-orders. Up ahead, the highly anticipated 2018 release of Harry Potter: Wizards Unite— a new augmented reality mobile game created by Warner Bros. and Niantic (the creators of the hit mobile game Pokémon Go) — could prove a prime candidate for the pre-order tool.

Before the app is released, users will be able to see the app's product page and order the app in advance (whether it's a free or paid app). Once the app is released, you'll be notified and the app will automatically download to your iPhone. If you paid for the app, you'll be charged before download.

Developers will be able to submit a version update and change the availability or pricing during the pre-order period. If the price changes during this time, you'll be charged the lower amount, so there's no dodgy price hikes afoot.

It's a pretty big win for developers, who'll be able to track pre-orders and monitor interest before the app hits the shelf. And customers won't miss a release date.

Pre-orders for apps will start popping up after Dec. 11. Don't spend all your money at once.

(Editor: {typename type="name"/})