Tighten User Privacy, Apple Asks Developers To Include Reasons For Using API

JAKARTA - Apple is afraid that App Programting Interfaces (API) can be misused to collect data about user devices through fingerprints. Now, the company asks app developers to be honest.

Developers should explain why their app needs access to select data, under certain circumstances with a new policy designed to crack down on API abuse.

It is known, API is used by developers to extract and exchange data. At WWDC 2023, Apple stated it would help ensure the app only uses this API to match its goals.

As part of the process, users must choose one or more approved reasons that accurately reflect how the app uses API, and the app can only use API for user-selected reasons.

Among the affected APIs are those around the file time stamp, disk space, system boot time, active keyboard, and user default.

Starting at the end of this year, when users upload new apps or updates to the App Store Connect that uses API (third party) and requires reason, users will receive notifications if they have not provided an approved reason.

While starting in early 2024, its applications and updates that do not include reasons will be rejected, as quoted from TechCrunch, Saturday, July 29.

The company says if apps need to use API for different reasons that developers believe should be approved, they should contact Apple.