Linked to use of 'private frameworks'

A number of apps used to detect Wi-Fi hotspots have disappeared from the App Store, accounts say. In particular the affected titles are said to be a small group which actively scan for hotspots, such as WiFi Where. Still available on the store are more passive apps, which combine databases with GPS location information. Little explanation has been offered by Apple except that the active apps use "private frameworks" for wireless that violate App Store rules.

The move could suggest that Apple is in the middle of a significant sweep operation at the App Store, removing whole sections of content it deems inappropriate. The company just recently purged thousands of "overtly sexual" apps, while leaving those created by wealthier and/or more influential publishers. Critics charge that many App Store rules are arbitrary, and can have a serious impact on developers, who may suddenly find themselves without income when previously available apps are banned.

by MacNN Staff