Last updated: Jun 09, 2023, 1:58 PM IST
Apple wants to end app cloning in the App Store
Apple wants to restrict cloning apps for iPhone users and developers must abide by the new rules or they will be removed.
Apple launched the new MacBook and its first-ever mixed reality headset this week. But the WWDC 2023 also had some interesting behind the scenes updates that are also important for the users. The Apple App Store has introduced some new policies as Apple tries to thwart the issue of app cloning and copycats.
The company has even gone so far as to say that the clone apps violate App Store rules, which could get them blacklisted from the App Store. The new rules clearly state that no developer can use the same code, user interface, or even a name that resembles another popular app.
App clones have become a big deal for both Google and Apple in recent years, with developers trying to ride the hype of popular apps and create clone versions that sound or resemble the main apps. Such cases occurred when Wordle became a hit, even though it never had an app for phones.
These changes are also likely related to the threat posed by ChatGPT, which developers use to code and create apps. Apple clearly believes that reviewing the App Store policies will show that the company means business and that it will not allow the developers to flout any rules or else their app will be removed from the App Store, which is a greater loss is for the app makers.
That said, the company will have to strictly monitor these apps and make sure that the cloning is done properly, and that Apple ultimately doesn’t remove apps that may not have broken App Store rules. There are other changes noted in the App Store policies, including apps that display ads. These apps must have the ability to report ads that are inappropriate for certain age groups and other subscription-related changes.
