Today, Apple has announced that they would be taking drastic steps regarding the bevy of malicious COVID-19 apps that have appeared on their App Store.
While Apple recognizes the fact that people need to "understand" exactly what is going on with the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic and even receive or provide assistance to one's neighbors, that doesn't mean people should be taking advantage of others in this trying time. So, Apple is taking a meat cleaver to all COVID-19 games and entertainment apps.
Why? Well, let's see what Apple has to say:
To help fulfill these expectations, we're evaluating apps critically to ensure data sources are reputable and that developers presenting these apps are from recognized entities such as government organizations, health-focused NGOs, companies deeply credentialed in health issues, and medical or educational institutions. Only developers from one of these recognized entities should submit an app related to COVID-19. Entertainment or game apps with COVID-19 as their theme will not be allowed.
That... actually makes sense. COVID-19 is no joke, and right now we need to have easily-available access to information regarding the virus. This makes apps that are actually trying to help their audience all the more crucial, so Apple is requesting developers to click the "Time-Sensitive Event" button on the expedite request form to ensure that their app receives a prioritized review before it appears on Apple's App Store.
For all developers who are developing an app for a client, they need to have their client add them to the development team of their Apple Developer account. If this has not yet been done, they can enroll you in the Apple Developer Program. Those who work for "Nonprofit organizations, accredited educational institutions, and government entities" and are creating free apps can ask to have their annual membership fee waived if they are based in a country that Apple can waive the fees.
For more information on this developing story, be sure to stay tuned to TechRaptor.
What do you think of this news? Do you think Apple is making the right decision? Do you think they are overstepping their bounds? Let us know in the comments!