Apple Blocks Dropbox Apps
The new Dropbox SDK features mechanics that are against the Apple App Store policy
Late last week, Apple started blocking apps that use the new Dropbox Software Development Kit (SDK) on the grounds that they are sending users to an additional purchase.
Apps based on the updated SDK can navigate users to the website where they can buy storage space directly from the company, rather than through the iOS AppStore. As a result, Apple doesn’t get its 30 percent cut of the profits.
Dropping the Dropbox
Digital locker service Dropbox is widely used by iOS developers as a way of allowing application users to share files with other devices.
Applications based on the new development kit allow users that don’t have the Dropbox app installed on their iOS device to use the browser instead to access the website for authorisation. The problem is the tiny link in the corner of the Log In screen that says “Desktop Version”.
Since the website, among other things, does sell additional storage space, Apple considers this as sending the user to an additional purchase, which is against the App Store rules.
“We found that your app provides access to external mechanisms for purchases or subscriptions to be used in the app,” wrote the Apple Resolution Center to one of the unfortunate developers. “Specifically, this app contains a link that takes the user to Dropbox via Safari.”
“I understand Apple’s need to protect their ecosystem but crap like this just crosses the line,” wrote one of the users on the Dropbox forum.
Dropbox has approached Apple to try and solve the issue. “We’re working with Apple to come up with a solution that still provides an elegant user experience,” read a statement given to Apple Insider.
Meanwhile, Dropbox has released an alternative version of the iOS SDK that removes both the “Desktop Version” link and the “Create Account” link.
Interestingly, the App Store policy states that “on occasion, there may be apps on the App Store that don’t appear to be in compliance with the App Store Review Guidelines”. It also says that “another app being out of compliance is not a reason for your app to be.”
Dropbox competes with Apple’s iCloud platform in the cloud storage market.
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