Apple Looks to Block Cookie Cutter Apps from the App Store

Apple is reportedly cracking down on iPhone applications that are built from templates; otherwise known as cookie cutter applications. These applications are often generated using an app building service and are usually just an RSS feed or a flashy business card.

According to TechCrunch, Apple isn't opposed to app generators and templates per se; however, the company doesn't want people using native applications for something that a basic web app could accomplish.

The founders of Appmakr, a popular app building tool, have received some suggestions from Apple on how to prevent their generated apps from being axed. The service is now planning to integrate new features like in-app purchases, instant notifications, offline access, and landscape viewing modes into their app templates.


Unfortunately for some app vendors Apple isn't being that accommodating to everyone. It's likely that app makers with very basic templates are getting hit the hardest, says TechCrunch.

Medialets CEO Eric Litman made the following comments in this regard,

"This is the ongoing balance point between encouraging innovation and growth on one side and wanting to tightly control user experience on the other. Apple wants iPhone apps to be superior to Web experiences because they are extremely sticky and drive people specifically to buy the iPhone over competing smartphone platforms. Apps that are too simple or largely indistinguishable from the Web, other apps or particularly other apps on other platforms send the message to end users that the iPhone app ecosystem might not be particularly special."

Although this may improve the user experience for iPhone owners, Apple's frequent change in App Store policies is not good for their relationship with developers.


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