Millions of iPhone apps to stop working as Apple launches App Store crackdown – Daily Star

iPhone users are being warned to check their apps this month, as Apple has given notice to app developers to update their products or watch them get binned.

The US tech firm has been heavily criticised by app developers who were handed warning emails telling them they had 30 days to add an update or face removal from the App Store.

Indie game developers are particularly affected, with old but finished software getting the chop despite needing no updates.

Apple hasn’t provided an exact justification for the crackdown, but it could be that it wants to reduce the risk of hackers gaining access to iPhones through outdated software bugs.

Apple is removing millions of working, functional apps if they haven’t had an update in a long time
(Image: Getty Images)

In a statement, Apple confirmed the change, saying: “developers of apps that have not been updated within the last three years and fail to meet a minimal download threshold—meaning the app has not been downloaded at all or extremely few times during a rolling 12 month period—receive an email notifying that their app has been identified for possible removal from the App Store.”

The company added that developers can appeal app removals and are now being given up to 90 days to update their apps.

Some app developers have complained that their apps are finished, so haven’t been updated in a while
(Image: Twitter)

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However, the rule change is still facing outcry from developers who say their apps don’t necessarily need updating.

One gamemaker said: “Apple is removing a few of my old games [because] they have ‘not been updated in a significant amount of time’.

“Games can exist as completed objects! These free projects aren’t suitable for updates or a live service model, they’re finished artworks from years ago.”

Apple have said that the change will only affect an app’s placement on the App Store, and if an app is already installed on your iPhone, it should still work. So, don’t worry: you can still play Temple Run.

Source: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/tech/news/millions-iphone-apps-stop-working-26869110