TechCrunch reporter Sarah Perez has already reported on the major changes to the App Review Guidelines that were released on Thursday. The changes primarily address the sharing of personal data with third-party artificial intelligence. At the same time, they’re creating new rules for app developers in places such as cryptocurrency exchanges that are permissively regulated.
Since August 2011, Sarah Perez has been focused on a full-time career in journalism with a brief stint at TechCrunch. Prior to that, she spent more than three years learning the ropes at ReadWriteWeb. Her 20+ years experience in IT has crossed multiple industries including banking, retail, and enterprise software. Weaving that wide-ranging experience into her work, she crafts her technology-focused stories with a clear, curious sense of investigative purpose.
Protecting user data Recently, a new rule was added, 5.1.2(i), which prevents apps from using personal data without clear user consent. Apps are not allowed to send or share that data back. This change significantly enhances user privacy. It empowers the public by making sure people know exactly what will happen with their data.
The newly updated guideline now mandates that apps prominently disclose their third-party sharing of personal data. This is critically needed, particularly in making data available to non-commercial third party AI. This requirement is the latest step in a continuing effort by the White House to strengthen transparency around app developers’ data practices in the app ecosystem.
This year’s revised guidelines have made some serious changes. They take apps that operate in very regulated industries, like crypto exchanges, and now put those on the same playing field. Beyond providing transparency to the currency, this addition represented the increasing role of regulatory compliance and enforcement in the tech sector, particularly as digital currencies continue to flourish.
These changes to the App Review Guidelines are intended to improve user privacy. They’re intended to promote fairness and trust in app store ecosystems. These amendments require affirmative consent before sharing data. They need infallible disclosure, empowering users to take more control over their personal data.
If you have further questions or would like some additional detail on the new guidelines, contact Sarah Perez. You can email her sarahp@techcrunch.com or send her an encrypted signal message at sarahperez.01 .