Apple imposes restrictions on Coronavirus-themed apps in the App Store

In an effort to ensure the “credibility” of health and safety information in the App Store, Apple is tightening requirements for all coronavirus-targeted apps, TechCrunch reports. The company posted a note on it developer blog Saturday which outlines the assessment process for apps related to the virus.

“We critically evaluate apps to ensure that data sources are reliable and that developers who present these apps come from recognized entities such as government organizations, health-oriented NGOs, companies with a high reputation for health issues, and medical or educational institutions”, according to the post. . “Only developers of one of these recognized entities are allowed to submit an app related to COVID-19.”

Apple also bans entertainment apps and games with a COVID-19 or coronavirus theme, the post states.

Developers should choose the “time-sensitive event” option when submitting an allowed COVID-19 related app to the App Store to speed up the process, as many focus on alleviating crisis situations. Membership fees for nonprofits and government agencies that develop apps related to the pandemic will be waived, the post said.