Apple is known for having strict guidelines that developers must follow in order to distribute their apps through the App Store. However, some developers have found ways to trick Apple’s App Store Review team in order to get their apps approved. One recent example of this is a pirate streaming app that managed to slip through the cracks and gain App Store approval.
The app in question, called “Collect Cards: Store box,” appeared to be a simple app for managing photos and videos based on its App Store description and screenshots. However, once users downloaded the app, it transformed into a pirate streaming platform, offering content from popular services such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and even Apple TV+.
Despite flying under the radar for over a year, the app recently surged to the number two spot on the list of most downloaded free apps in the App Store in Brazil. So, how did the developers manage to deceive the App Store Review team?
According to reports, the app is designed to detect the user’s location and only display the pirate streaming interface to users in certain regions, such as Brazil. This clever tactic allowed the app to appear harmless and in compliance with Apple’s guidelines when reviewed by the App Store team.
This is not the first time developers have used location data to deceive Apple’s App Store Review. In the past, companies like Uber have been accused of using similar tactics to bypass Apple’s restrictions. Despite Apple having over 500 human experts on the App Store Review team, the sheer number of apps being submitted each week means that most apps undergo automated review processes before any manual reviews are conducted.
As of now, Apple has not yet commented on the situation, and the pirate streaming app was still available for free (with in-app purchases) on the App Store at the time of this article’s publication.
It is important to note that these tactics used by developers to trick Apple’s App Store Review team are not only unethical but also in violation of Apple’s guidelines. As Apple continues to crack down on such practices, it is crucial for developers to adhere to the rules and standards set by the company to ensure the safety and integrity of the App Store ecosystem.