Affects titles built on simple templates

Apple attempts at blocking unwanted titles from the App Store have evolved to target so-called "cookie-cutter" apps, developers say. The affected apps -- in the crosshairs for approximately a month, according to claims -- are mostly built with special generator software, which can be used churn out apps based on standard templates. Apple's specific focus though is said to be titles that provide little functionality, such as a simple RSS feed.

While the cleanup could harm some companies specializing in app generators, Apple is said to be approaching a few developers and making recommendations that will allow them to stay in business. Appmakr for instance has begun integrating more complex options into its designs, including landscape and offline modes, as well as in-app purchases and instant notifications. Apple is also allegedly limiting its actions to preventing new cookie-cutter apps from appearing, instead of removing existing ones.

Despite complaints about the restrictions of the App Store, Apple has in recent weeks been outright removing thousands of titles it considers inappropriate. Most of these have been "overtly sexual" apps, featuring some form of sexual innuendo and/or scantily-clad women. A minority have been Wi-Fi hotspot detectors, accused of using rule-breaking private frameworks.

by MacNN Staff