Apple has announced the beginning of countering applications that track users through the use of data collection mechanisms from personal devices.
The tech giant published a message on its blog stating that several APIs could potentially be used for unofficial purposes. The company also reported that in this case, the signals of the device are recorded for its subsequent monitoring. Separately, the technology giant states that the fingerprint algorithm can be used as part of illegal practice.
The company focuses on the fact that fingerprinting is a prohibited action, regardless of whether tracking permission has been obtained from the user. Apple informs that in order to prevent the misuse of certain APIs that can be used to collect data about devices, consumers should indicate the reasons for applying the software interface in the application privacy manifest.
The tech giant said that in the fall, developers will have to provide a reasoned and comprehensive explanation of why they need APIs. The company has compiled a list of software interfaces, the use of which requires justification. In the spring of 2024, developers will have to provide explanations for adding their products to the Apple Store Connect.
In the message of the technology giant posted on his blog, it is also noted that the reasons for the need and validity of access to the API are approved in advance in the form of a list and formulated, containing an algorithm for using the interface by the application. The company also stressed that developers will not be able to use the API outside of the goals that they will initially specify.
At present, the state of affairs in the sphere of Apple’s relationship with developers can be described as a kind of struggle. Last week, more than 1,500 app creators in the UK sued the tech giant. The amount indicated in the lawsuit is $1 billion and is a financial claim of the developers to the iPhone manufacturer. According to them, the tech giant charges exploitative fees ranging from 15% to 30% for sales within apps in the App Store.
Sean Ennis, who teaches at the Center for Competition Policy at the University of East Anglia, said during a conversation with media representatives that, in his opinion, the company’s fees are excessive and are explained by the monopoly on the distribution of digital products on the iPhone and iPad. He also noted that the charges are an example of a reaction to illegal pricing. According to him, in this case, harm is caused to application developers and consumers of the corresponding product.
Apple denies the allegations against it. The company claims that 85% of developers do not pay any fees in its digital store. The tech giant also reports that it helps app creators in Europe gain access to consumers in 175 countries.
Apple has also been the figurant of antitrust complaints in France, South Korea, the Netherlands, and Germany. These appeals contain claims about the policy of the technology giant that determines the functioning of the App Store and the conditions for interaction with this online platform.
