Only a select few are allowed to build apps related to COVID-19, says Apple

As the world fights COVID-19 pandemic, communities around the world are trusting apps to be their news sources and Apple says it’s working hard to ensure the credibility of health and safety information.

The company says it’s evaluating apps related to COVID-19 critically to make sure that the developers presenting the apps are from recognized entities such as government organizations, educational or medical institutions and that data sources are reputable. The company is allowing only developers that belong to one of the aforementioned entities to submit an app related to COVID-19.

In order to fast forward the process, Apple is encouraging eligible developers to select “Time-Sensitive Event” on the expedite request form to ensure prioritized review since App Store review may take longer.

Moreover, those planning to distribute only free apps on the App Store can request Apple to have their annual membership fee waived if based in an eligible country.

Clients or organizations are required to add their developers on to the development team of their Apple Developer account. Clients that do not have an Apple Developer account yet can enroll in the Apple Developer Program.

The company’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been wide-ranging so far. Apple says its donations to the cause have reached $15 million worldwide. The company has also cancelled its in-person Worldwide Developers Conference, turning it into an online-only event.

In addition, all of its stores outside of Greater China will remain closed until March 27. The company’s online stores are, however, open at www.apple.com, or you can download the Apple Store app on the App Store. Customers can visit support.apple.com for service and support. Moreover, a new COVID-19 section has been launched by the company which provides users with the latest verified reporting from trusted news outlets.

Would you recommend this article?

Share

Thanks for taking the time to let us know what you think of this article!
We'd love to hear your opinion about this or any other story you read in our publication.


Jim Love, Chief Content Officer, IT World Canada

Featured Download

Pragya Sehgal
Pragya Sehgal
Born and raised in the capital city of India - Delhi - bounded by the river Yamuna on the west, Pragya has climbed the Himalayas, and survived medical professional stream in high school without becoming a patient or a doctor. Pragya now makes her home in Canada with her husband - a digital/online marketing fanatic who also loves to prepare beautiful, healthy and delicious meals for her. When she isn’t working or writing around tech, she’s probably watching art films on Netflix, or wondering whether she should cut her hair short or not. Can be contacted at [email protected] or 647.695.3494.

Featured Story

How the CTO can Maintain Cloud Momentum Across the Enterprise

Embracing cloud is easy for some individuals. But embedding widespread cloud adoption at the enterprise level is...

Related Tech News

Get ITBusiness Delivered

Our experienced team of journalists brings you engaging content targeted to IT professionals and line-of-business executives delivered directly to your inbox.

Featured Tech Jobs