Apple App Store API usage gets new rules to protect user privacy

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User privacy on the internet is a big deal, and the new Apple App Store API usage rule ensures its protection. Apple is making some adjustments to the already existing sets of rules as they aim to protect users’ privacy. These improvements will affect developers and how they access certain information regarding the users of their apps and services.

Occasionally, most netizens worry about how much of their data an app accesses. Most of the time this question goes unanswered as developers on the App Store tend to hold back the reason behind their API usage. Yes, some developers misuse certain APIs present within their apps on the App Store, hence threatening user privacy.

However, Apple is aware of this fact, and they have been working to find a solution to the problem. Finally, the company is introducing a new process to ensure that developers are clear about API usage. This process will give app users a good amount of information they need concerning their privacy.

The new fingerprinting process will help track Apple App Store API usage

Apple is now introducing a new feature they call fingerprinting to help track API usage. This feature will mandate developers to tell the reasons why certain APIs exist in their apps. Also, they’d need to explain to users the use of these APIs, so they can know what they’re getting into before downloading the app.

The breakdown of these details will be made available for users in the app privacy manifest. Developers can give this information in the app manifest or contact Apple if there is a reason to hold back certain details. They only get to contact Apple if they don’t fully cover the reasons for the usage of certain APIs that are still of benefit to users.

App Store developers are now expected to be transparent with their app users when it comes to the matter of privacy. Users, on the other hand, will be able to access the API usage information on the app manifest once available. Apple is requesting that by Fall, developers start getting these details ready.

Come Spring next year, these details on Apple App Store API usage will be available in the app manifest. This information will come in handy to users that care to know how apps handle their data. This is an impressive privacy improvement that will help protect users’ online data.

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