Guideline 4.8 requires that any app using a third-party social login for primary account authentication must also offer an alternative login option that limits data collection to name and email, permits email privacy, and does not collect app interaction data for advertising without consent. Sign In with Apple satisfies these requirements.
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 provision effectively requires that Sign In with Apple or an equivalent privacy-preserving login option be offered alongside any third-party social login used for primary account authentication, limiting the extent to which social platforms can capture user authentication data through App Store apps. Developers using multiple social login options must verify that at least one compliant alternative is available.
The updated guidelines do not directly affect end users of apps, but they establish new requirements for developers submitting apps to the App Store. Developers must now provide regulatory documentation for apps requiring approval, implement content moderation safeguards for user-generated content and AI content creation platforms, and ensure all app information and creative assets meet specific accuracy and appropriateness standards. Developers who fail to implement safeguards or remediate violations after notice may be considered in violation of the Developer Code of Conduct, potentially resulting in app removal or account termination.
View change record →⚠ Apps using third-party social login for primary account authentication without offering a compliant alternative login option may be rejected during App Review.
⚠ Failure to implement the required alternative login is a stated basis for app rejection.
Cross-platform context
See how other platforms handle Third-Party Login Service Equivalency Requirement and similar clauses.
Compare across platforms →"Apps that use a third-party or social login service (such as Facebook Login, Google Sign-In, Log in with X, Sign In with LinkedIn, Login with Amazon, or WeChat Login) to set up or authenticate the user's primary account with the app must also offer as an equivalent option another login service with the following features: the login service limits data collection to the user's name and email address; the login service allows users to keep their email address private as part of setting up their account; and the login service does not collect interactions with your app for advertising purposes without consent.Excerpt from Apple's App Store Review Guidelines
(1) REGULATORY LANDSCAPE: This provision engages GDPR data minimization principles and purpose limitation requirements, as well as CCPA data collection transparency obligations.
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This provision effectively requires that Sign In with Apple or an equivalent privacy-preserving login option be offered alongside any third-party social login used for primary account authentication, limiting the extent to which social platforms can capture user authentication data through App Store apps. Developers using multiple social login options must verify that at least one compliant alternative is available.
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