Apple says it will only accept Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and coronavirus-related apps from “recognized entities” in its App Store.
Earlier this month, Apple started cracking down on apps related to the coronavirus outbreak.It reportedly rejected apps from at least four developers whose apps would’ve displayed stats about which countries had confirmed cases of the disease, which has since been labeled a pandemic by the World Health Organization.Now Apple’s making that ban official.
In a statement posted to its developer website Saturday, Apple said it would accept coronavirus-related apps only from “recognized entities such as government organizations, health-focused NGOs, companies deeply credentialed in health issues, and medical or educational institutions.” The company said it wants to ensure “data sources are reputable.”
Apple expected to launch a budget-friendly phone
To help get approved apps out quickly, the company said any developers that meet its criteria can mark their submissions as part of a “Time-Sensitive Event.” That will expedite their review.
“Communities around the world are depending on apps to be credible news sources helping users understand the latest health innovations, find out where they can get help if needed or provide assistance to their neighbors,” Apple said in its statement.
“Now more than ever that commitment takes on special significance as the world fights the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Apple’s move follows pleas from the White House earlier this week for tech companies to help stop misinformation and disinformation about the coronavirus from spreading online.
Already, fake accounts online have spread incorrect rumors about where the virus originated, celebrities who may have contracted it and potential cures (of which the Centers for Disease Control says there currently are none).
The company’s efforts are likely to significantly cut down on the number of coronavirus-related apps available for Apple’s iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch devices, as most people can download apps only through the company’s App Store.
Microsoft, Google and Amazon, which run app stores of their own, didn’t respond to requests for comment about whether they’ll make similar moves.
Apple to release less expensive iPhone in 2020
Apple noted it doesn’t usually charge nonprofits, government entities and accredited educational institutions for access to its developer tools if they plan to distribute their apps for free. Otherwise, a membership to its developer program, which is needed to distribute apps on the App Store, costs at least $99 a year.
