Apple Releases New Guidelines For Old Applications in the App Store

Over the past years, the Apple App Store has undergone significant changes to suit users' needs. Many developers have added third-party apps to the platform, while some applications have received various updates.

While some users praise it, the iOS store also draws flak from the critics. Some say that it's unfair to impose fees, while others think it needs further updates.

Just recently, the Cupertino titan has unveiled a new set of guidelines for the old apps. This does not sound interesting to the developers, but let's see how the company will handle these changes.

Outdated Apple Apps on App Store

Since the next-gen smartphones can now keep up with the latest software updates, a device needs to have an updated batch of apps. Indeed, some developers will disagree with removing the outdated apps on the app store, but Apple has an explanation regarding this.

Having an updated application welcomes the new OS ecosystem for iOS and macOS. This means that many users will be able to use an app at a new level. In addition, they will also get to enjoy new privacy and security features in using it.

According to a report by Slash Gear, Apple clarifies its new policies regarding outdated apps. The iPhone maker is now letting the developers have some breathing room about the new requirements.

Having said that, an application is considered to be "outdated" when it has not yet received any updates within the previous three years. It should be noted that if the download numbers of an application are low, it could be because of the stagnant updates.

With that in mind, Apple will remind the developers to roll out new updates for their apps to avoid the risk of getting their apps removed from the App Store.

Apple Extends Grace Period For App Update

Previously, the Cupertino firm only allowed the developers to update their applications within 30 days, starting from when they received the email.

This requirement appears to be unfair to others since not all will be able to comply. However, the new change tackles that the grace period of one month will now be extended to 90 days. There will be a lot of time for the devs to set things up as part of the new policy in the app store.

In case the app is delisted on the App Store, Apple guarantees that it will still work on a particular iOS device, given that it's already installed.

In return, the developers will continue to benefit from it by receiving revenue. However, it won't be too long until the application is removed from the platform.

Last month, Apple said that a group of economists from the Analysis Group had some interesting findings on third-party applications on the app store.

The experts concluded that they saw massive success for these apps. Additionally, they observed that these applications have a high engagement for global users.

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Joseph Henry