Apple has instructed app developers to remove or properly disclose their use of analytics code that allows them to record how a user interacts with their iPhone apps.
According to TechCrunch, an Apple spokesperson said: “Protecting user privacy is paramount in the Apple ecosystem. Our App Store Review Guidelines require that apps request explicit user consent and provide a clear visual indication when recording, logging, or otherwise making a record of user activity.”
Following a revelation that major companies were using a third-party analytics tool to record every tap and swipe inside the app.
Glassbox is a cross-platform analytics tool that specializes in session replay technology. It allows companies to integrate its screen recording technology into their apps to replay how a user interacts with the apps. Glassbox says it provides the technology, among many reasons, to help reduce app error rates. But the company “doesn’t enforce its customers” to mention that they use Glassbox’s screen recording tools in their privacy policies.
But Apple expressly forbids apps that covertly collect data without a user’s permission.
app developers have already been notified that their apps had fallen afoul of Apple’s rules. One app developer was told by Apple to remove code that recorded app activities, citing the company’s app store guidelines.
“Your app uses analytics software to collect and send user or device data to a third party without the user’s consent. Apps must request explicit user consent and provide a clear visual indication when recording, logging, or otherwise making a record of user activity,” Apple spokes person.
Apple gave the developer less than a day to remove the code and resubmit their app or the app would be removed from the app store, the email said.
When asked if Glassbox was aware of the app store removals, a spokesperson for Glassbox said that “the communication with Apple is through our customers.”
Glassbox is also available to Android app developers. Google did not immediately comment if it would also ban the screen recording code. Google Play also expressly prohibits apps from secretly collecting device usage.
It’s the latest privacy debacle that has forced Apple to wade in to protect its customers after apps were caught misbehaving.