Apple has expressed its surprise over some Australian developers
having issues with the App Store and the way it reviews, rejects or approves apps.
The tech giant has responded to the Australian Competition and Consumer
Commission (ACCC)’s to-be-released investigation report that is based on data
collected about consumer, supplier, and developer experience in Australia. The commission
plans to release its report on March 31 and in an attempt to defend its App
Store and App Review processes, Apple has provided some information in the form
of a submission to ACCC.
Apple argued that it "invests significant time and resources in engaging with developers directly" to ensure the quality of apps on the platform. It added that its app review system is a "human-led process" and that all human reviewers ensure that apps "are reliable, perform as expected, respect user privacy, and are free of objectionable content."
Explaining its app review policies, Apple said that 73% of
prospective apps submitted by developers to its platform are now reviewed
within 24 hours with a final verdict that is delivered at the end to developers
on whether their app is approved or rejected. In case of rejection, the
developer is provided with reasons for rejection and can "correspond with
the Apple team member who reviewed the app." Developers also have the opportunity
to appeal a rejection to the App Store Review Board.
Apple also responded to concerns over the possible manipulation
caused in its app review process, saying that its goal is to protect consumers
from "fraudulent, non-functioning, malicious or scam apps."
The investigation report by ACCC is expected to contain submissions
from Australian developers about their disapproval of the App Store’s app
review process or how they think they've been mistreated by the tech giant.
