[willstraf]

It's interesting you mention that. I pointed that out today, and a new rule was implemented, saying that if a cracked application has a built in (fully featured) timed trial when it detects that it is a pirated version, then that check should remain intact and un-patched, otherwise the crack or request for the crack will be removed. Not perfect, but at least a step in the right direction (they didn't have an argument when it was brought up, because their reasoning is that people want a fair chance to try apps before paying, which this compromise allows).

I'd link to the thread on their forums about this new rule, but I'm assuming that most people in here are iOS developers who seem to be against this, so you probably don't have an account on their website and can't view the post.

[kennywinker]

I suspect doing this would run afoul of the Mac App Store guidelines. There is a bunch of language about trials, demos, licence keys, etc.

So... nice of them to say that, but I think it amounts to just lip service.

Similarly, why is Angry Birds available as a cracked download? There is a free version you can try out and decide if you like it. I call bullshit on the "try before you buy" axiom.

[willstraf]

I agree that the whole "try before you buy" thing seems like bullshit, but let me confirm. The "new rule" I posted about above is referring to a case in which the application is a paid application that is cracked, but the application detects the crack and instead of limiting its functions or ceasing to work, it self-instills a "timed trial". Definitely would be annoying for developers to implement, but it will also make you kind of "untouchable" to the pirate/cracker community, since you as a developer are satisfying the "try before you buy" rule that they like to say they follow.

Angry Birds is different. Their "rule" and way of thinking applies to fully featured trials. Angry Birds offers not a timed trial, but I believe it instead only allows you to play the first level before paying. Not saying I fully agree with this technicality, but that is the way that the crackers are seeing it.

Hope this clears some things up.