May 4, 2024

App Store Approval Process Reaches a Sad New Low

Posted August 5, 2009 at 2:52pm by iClarified · 8990 views
Apple has reached such a ridiculous new low in its App Store approval process that it is now removing words from the dictionary.

The company required Matchstick Software to remove numerous words from their Ninjawords dictionary application because Apple found them to be objectionable.

These words include some which have utterly innocent senses: ass, snatch, pussy, cock, and even screw.

All of these words are available in Apple's own dictionary as well as in other dictionary applications on the App Store.

On top of this censorship Apple is forcing Matchstick Software to carry a 17+ rating on their application even though the company gave in and removed all 'objectionable' words.

Daring Fireball's John Grubar writes, "Apple censored an English dictionary.

A dictionary. A reference book. For words contained in all reasonable dictionaries. For words contained in dictionaries that are used every day in elementary school libraries and classrooms."

We're not sure why Apple feels its necessary to repeatedly damage its relationship with developers; however, we can't help but see this as damaging to Apple in the future.

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