US firm Iconology has launched an iPhone app that lets users buy and read comics using in-app payments.
The app is called Comics by comiXology, and launched at the prestigious Comic-Con International conference in San Diego. It costs £0.59 from Apple's App Store.
The application is launching with more than 100 comics available from 20 publishers and independent writers. Although there's no Marvel or DC, Iconology has signed up publishers including Arcana Comics, eigoMANGA and Moonstone.
The app makes use of iPhone and iPod touch's features in several ways, most obviously with its touch-based interface to read the comics.
However, it also uses the in-app payments feature of the new iPhone 3.0 software for actually buying individual comics to download within the application. Judging by the demo video, it seems these may cost around £0.59 each.
Meanwhile, Iconology's app also has a location-based feature to help users find local stores selling the printed versions of all these comics, in an effort to drive sales of those too.
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"The stunning display and innovative multi-touch user interface of iPhone and iPod touch have finally made comics appealing in a digital format," says CEO David Steinberger.
"By combining great comics with iPhone OS 3.0's in-app purchasing and location awareness features, we are creating a revolution in the way comics are sold and read."
Fancy a browse? You can find Comics on the App Store by clicking here.
