Developers Now Have Access to Apple’s App Store Appeals Process

Apple said at WWDC (World Wide Developers Conference) that it would allow developers to contest App Store rules and decisions, and now they are making good on that commitment. Apps that fail to meet guidelines but are already on the App Store will no longer be required to remedy guideline violations before Apple approves updates that involved fixing bugs. Going forward. Apple will take feedback from developers on its App store policy and will work with the community to evolve its process.

Apple explained that these changes are already implemented and said that even though guideline violators won’t have to make any changes to release bug fixes, they will need to correct their guideline infractions prior to their next app submission.

Apple made these changes in response to their battle developers over Basecamp’s popular ‘Hey’ email app. Apple had rejected Basecamp’s bug-fix updates cited the app’s requirement for users to sign up for Hey on the web as a violation of App store policy. Cupertino was also unhappy about Hey’s lack of in-app purchases or trials, which Apple usually gets a healthy commission for. After that, Apple then reversed its decision and allowed the bug fixes to be published while Basecamp came up with a free trial to offer to appease Apple.

You would think that changes like these would help prevent situations like this from happening again, but a little later, Apple blocked WordPress app updates in a bid to force in-app purchase compatibility. Also, Apple is arguing with Epic Games who has recently fired back by offering discounts on its fantastically popular game Fortnite for those that bypass App Store.

Apples long-time authoritative reputation kinda makes me doubt just how receptive Apple will actually be towards suggestions to change the way it does things.

Featured Image Credit: [Pixabay/Jeshoots]