Dark Horse Comics has announced that it will be shutting down its iOS app, effectively ending its direct-to-reader sales. The decision comes as the company acknowledges that consumer reading preferences have shifted in different directions. As a result, users have until March 30th to download any comics they've purchased through the app, after which support will cease.

The shutdown of the iOS app also affects the standalone Plants vs. Zombies comics app, which will no longer be supported as of March 31st. However, users can still access their purchased comics by creating an account on the Dark Horse Digital website before the deadline. The company has assured that users will be able to read their comics on the website at least through summer 2025.

Despite the discontinuation of its direct-to-reader sales, Dark Horse Comics has clarified that its books will continue to be available on numerous digital reading platforms. The move is seen as a response to changing consumer habits, with the company opting to focus on other distribution channels.

It's worth noting that users do not own the digital books themselves, but rather a license to access them. This nuance has been highlighted by Senator Ron Wyden in a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), emphasizing the importance of clarifying digital ownership rights. Dark Horse Comics' FAQ explicitly states that users do not have ownership of digital books, a point that has sparked debate in the digital content industry.

In a gesture of goodwill, Dark Horse Comics is offering refunds for comics purchased on its website this year. However, refunds for purchases made through the iOS app will need to be discussed with Apple, according to the company's FAQ.

The shutdown of the Dark Horse Comics iOS app serves as a reminder of the evolving digital landscape and the need for companies to adapt to changing consumer preferences. As the digital content industry continues to shift, it remains to be seen how other companies will respond to the challenges and opportunities presented by this new landscape.

In related news, Senator Ron Wyden's letter to the FTC has sparked a wider conversation about digital ownership rights, with many calling for greater clarity and protection for consumers. As the debate unfolds, it will be important to monitor how companies like Dark Horse Comics respond to these concerns and adapt their business models accordingly.