Apple has updated its App Store review guidelines and now requires developers to clearly inform users and obtain consent before sharing any personal data with third party AI services. This change raises questions about whether Apple is reinforcing its privacy commitments or reducing its involvement in the current AI wave.
The rule was updated on 13 November and prepares users of Apple’s devices for the future arrival of more advanced AI powered Siri features. Earlier this month, reports suggested that Apple was close to a one billion dollar deal with Google that would allow Google’s Gemini AI to power Siri.
Developers building on Apple platforms already need to seek permission before collecting or sharing personal data. This aligns with global privacy frameworks such as the European Union GDPR. India also notified its new data privacy laws on Friday night, which will now regulate how companies use personal data.
Apple’s policies state that any app that does not comply with the rules may be removed from the App Store. The latest update adds a clear instruction. “You must clearly disclose where personal data will be shared with third parties, including with third party AI, and obtain explicit permission before doing so.”
Market analysts expect Apple to release a Gemini powered Siri in 2026. The updated assistant is likely to introduce several new features, including completing actions across apps through Siri commands. Apple is ensuring that other apps do not leak personal data to external AI providers as it prepares for these new capabilities.
The previous guideline already required disclosure and user consent, but the wording was softer. It stated that apps could not “use, transmit or share” personal data without permission. The new wording is direct and specific, especially in its reference to third party AI.
The impact of this change could be significant. Apps that plan to use AI systems to collect or process user information may need to reconsider how they operate. This could affect personalisation features in some cases. However, it strengthens data privacy protections for users.
This update is not the only change to Apple’s App Review Guidelines. Apple also revised rules related to its mini apps programme, which was announced on the same day. The guidelines include additional adjustments for creator apps, loan apps and other regulated categories. Crypto exchanges have also been added to the list of regulated apps.
For the mini apps partner programme, Apple introduced a new developer arrangement that reduces the commission rate of fifteen percent on in app purchases in these applications. Apple defines a mini app as a self contained experience created using web technologies such as HTML five and JavaScript.
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