Even though they're not supposed to be possible on Android...
iPhone has in-app purchases, and BlackBerry is getting them next year, but as yet there isn't a similar capability for Android. At least not officially.
However, independent developer Urbian HAS managed to find a workaround, allowing it to sell level packs for its Ringz Android game.
The company has explained to MobileCrunch how it's done - complete with features to ensure people can't illegally share the extra levels.
It's a valuable extra revenue stream for Ringz, which as a free Android game hasn't previously made any money for Urbian.
The level packs - two of which have so far been made available - cost $1.99 each - and are downloaded as separate apps from Android Market.
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However, it's fair to say that there won't be a wider surge of in-app content and purchases until Google follows Apple and RIM in launching official in-app payments functionality.
