Apple is set to crack down on apps that utilize fingerprinting, a controversial method used to follow users across many apps and websites, to improve user privacy and curb tracking practices.
According to an article on Apple's developer site, the company plans to implement fresh rules requiring developers to justify their usage of "required reason" APIs before submitting their apps to the App Store.
What Is Fingerprinting?
Fingerprinting, also known as canvas fingerprinting, has been a growing concern in the digital realm for over a decade.
It involves using specific API calls to collect data about users' devices, such as screen resolution, model, and operating system. It also creates a unique digital "fingerprint" to identify users as they navigate across different platforms.
With privacy becoming an increasingly paramount concern for users, Apple's move is an important step toward protecting user data.
Apple's New API Rules
Engadget reports that the forthcoming iOS 17, tvOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma updates are set to implement these stringent measures.
Developers must declare the reasons for using "required reason" APIs in their app's privacy manifest. Failure to provide a valid reason could result in app rejections starting from spring 2024.
Developers' Concerns
While Apple's efforts to enhance user privacy are commendable, some developers are expressing apprehension about potential app rejection rates surging due to the new guidelines.
9to5Mac reports that one such API falling under the "required reason" category is UserDefaults, a common API used to store user preferences in apps. Given its widespread use, developers fear their apps might be rejected for merely omitting an explanation for using this API.
Nevertheless, Apple will allow developers to appeal rejections and submit requests for situations not covered in the guidelines, providing some room for flexibility.
Engadget notes that Apple's commitment to user privacy is not new; the company previously declared war on tracking with the release of iOS 14.5 in 2021. This move required developers to obtain user permission before tracking their activities.
Since introducing this feature, a meager 4% of US iPhone users have agreed to app tracking, indicating that privacy is a top concern for most of Apple's user base.
What's Next?
The motive behind Apple's crackdown on fingerprinting is clear: the company aims to prevent the misuse of certain APIs that could compromise user privacy.
Apple determines that requiring developers to explain their data-collecting policies would ensure that apps only use APIs for their intended purposes, leaving no possibility for unauthorized data harvesting.
The issue for developers is to balance using APIs for legal purposes and adhering to Apple's strict privacy restrictions. While the goal is to protect user data, the practical implications of these new guidelines may present challenges for developers working with regularly used APIs.
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