This analysis describes what Apple's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This prohibition prevents developers from placing paywalls on device capabilities and Apple services that users already have access to by virtue of owning their device or subscribing to Apple services.
Interpretive note: Both categories use 'such as', indicating the named items are examples. The full scope of prohibited monetization targets is broader than the named examples.
The updated guidelines state that developers must ensure kids receive age-appropriate experiences within their apps and must remove user-generated content that violates the guidelines, terms of service, or community standards. Under the revised policy, if Apple identifies policy-violating content, the developer will be asked to remove it and provide a compliance improvement plan. Based on the developer's response, the app may be removed from the App Store until compliance is demonstrated. This establishes a formal escalation pathway where developer inaction or inadequate remediation can result in app suspension or removal.
View change record →Developers cannot charge you separately for access to built-in device features like the camera or Push Notifications, or for Apple services such as Apple Music, within their apps.
How other platforms handle this
You shall not sell, redeem, or otherwise transfer Virtual Items to any person or entity.
(c) charge its customers a specific fee for use of the Products, but Customer may charge an overall fee for its own offerings (of which the Products are ancillary)
the license granted to you in Virtual Items will terminate in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, on the earlier of when Tinder ceases providing our Services, or your account is otherwise closed or terminated.
"You may not monetize built-in capabilities provided by the hardware or operating system, such as Push Notifications, the camera, or the gyroscope; or Apple services and technologies, such as Apple Music access...Excerpt from Apple's App Store Review Guidelines
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This prohibition prevents developers from placing paywalls on device capabilities and Apple services that users already have access to by virtue of owning their device or subscribing to Apple services.
Developers cannot charge you separately for access to built-in device features like the camera or Push Notifications, or for Apple services such as Apple Music, within their apps.
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 124 platforms. See the full comparison.
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