Some might think Apple has loosened its grip on the App Store after its recent legal battles, but the tech giant is proving once again that it's not resting on its laurels. The popular calorie-tracking app Cal AI recently found itself removed from the App Store, not only for trying to evade Apple's commission, but also for using deceptive and misleading tactics. Let's delve into the details of this drama and how Apple has demonstrated that it's still keeping a close eye on everything to protect us.
The story behind the ban: It's not just about an external payment system.
The story began when Cal AI, an app developed by two high school students that generated $50 million in annual revenue before being acquired by MyFitnessPal last March, suddenly disappeared from the App Store last week. Initially, there were widespread speculation that Apple removed the app simply because it used an external web-based payment system instead of Apple's own in-app purchase system.
However, as we know, Apple now allows developers in the US to include links to external payment methods thanks to the settlement in the well-known Epic Games case. Nevertheless, Apple's golden rule states that its own payment option must be offered alongside any external option, unless the app falls under the "reader" category (such as ebook, audio, and video apps), which is definitely not the case for Cal AI.
Numerous violations: This is how the app tried to deceive users
When TechCrunch contacted Apple, the response was firm: the removal wasn't simply due to a payment link, but rather multiple violations of App Store rules. The first and most egregious violation was completely bypassing Apple's in-app purchase system. The app integrated a third-party payment interface (Stripe) to unlock paid features, completely hiding Apple's payment option—a clear violation of section 3.1.1.
But what's truly disturbing is the "misleading" billing practices that violate section 3.1.2c. Imagine logging in to subscribe, only to find the weekly price displayed prominently, while the actual total amount to be charged to your credit card is almost hidden! Add to that a "free trial" button specifically designed to conceal the details of automatic subscription renewal. In short, the app has set a sophisticated marketing trap to ensnare users.
On top of all that, the app employed manipulative tactics that violated the developer code of conduct. If you dared to reject the initial subscription offer, the app would immediately bombard you with a second, different subscription offer in a desperate attempt to drain your funds. These underhanded practices naturally led to a flood of negative reviews from users who felt cheated and described the app as a complete "scam." At this point, Apple had to step in like a strict traffic cop to protect its users.
Returning to the lesson learned from the apple
After this strong reprimand, the developers at Cal AI quickly complied with the rules, correcting the violations and removing the deceptive tactics. Indeed, with a forgiving heart (as long as the rules were followed), Apple allowed the app back on the App Store, where it currently ranks fourth in the health and fitness app category. Despite attempts to contact the developers for comment, they have chosen to remain completely silent.
The app may have been trying to "test the waters" and gauge Apple's vigilance after the recent changes to the store's policies, but Apple's response was a resounding warning to everyone: Apple remains the faithful guardian of its store, and is prepared to sacrifice its share of the profits from a viral app that generates millions of dollars, if the price is compromising the security and transparency of the experience that we, as Apple enthusiasts, trust.
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