O2 launches iTunes Codes for carrier billing

O2 has launched iTunes Codes, which allows customers to purchase iTunes credit automatically charged to their monthly phone bill, or taken out of pre-paid credit. The codes are usable for purchases across the iTunes, App and Mac App Stores, as well as for iBooks.

Customers will be able to use the codes to download music, apps, books, films, TV series’ and more. According to O2, this kind of Charge to Mobile payment method is increasing in popularity, with over 100 merchants already using it in the UK through O2’s online and mobile channels. The operator said so far over 10 million Charge to Mobile transactions have been made by its customers.

“We look forward to making our customers’ lives easier by offering them a fast, easy and safe alternative method of payment to purchase iTunes credit,” Danny Barclay, Head of Commerce Sales at O2 said.

O2 is delivering iTunes Codes, available from today, in partnership with managed service providers epay and Touchtechmedia, and with mobile payments company Boku.

Considering the recent announcement of Apple Pay, it is interesting O2 is now offering Apple products via carrier billing. Apple Pay is yet to launch in the UK, and judging by this development and lack of any concrete announcements, looks like it could be a while before it will be available here.