One time authentication key

[UconnAggie]

Hello,
I would like to find a way to require a key to activate the app I am looking to distribute.
The plan is to have the app posted on the store for free. The app will require an activation key that the user will have to input the first time. After they have done this, the app will be activated and they can use all the features.

Is there a third party available that can help me manage this or any thoughts on how I can code it myself?

Thanks

[RLScott]

Do you seriously expect Apple to approve an app, even a free, with such a feature?

[UconnAggie]

They already do. Several home theater companies use this model when deploying their remote control iPad apps. You can download these apps for free but can't use them unless they are authenticated, i.e. you have an account with them.

[RLScott]

Originally Posted by UconnAggie

They already do. Several home theater companies use this model when deploying their remote control iPad apps. You can download these apps for free but can't use them unless they are authenticated, i.e. you have an account with them.

OK, I see. I thought you were trying to find a way around letting Apple have their cut of the software price.

[hoodles]

I'm really curious, did you end up doing this, and did Apple approve your app?

[cvcs1]

I think you could write an array of codes that matches one on a site that your users access when they purchase or activate, then just simple have each code work for a serial code. Thats the easy way.

[hoodles]

BTW I ran across an app that requires the user to enter a code in order to use it:

Accenture Executive Podcasts for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad on the iTunes App Store

So there is at least one example of Apple allowing this. Anyone know of any others?