Apple to Remove App Store Games That Haven’t Been Updated

Apple has informed developers that apps and games may be removed from the App Store, after two years without an update. Apple has implemented a new App Store enhancement plan. The aim of the plan is to ensure customers “find great apps that fit their needs” and are compatible with updated iOS devices. 

According to an email addressed to affected developers, apps that haven't been updated in a considerable amount of time will be removed from the App Store. Developers have 30 days to update their apps to avoid removal of the apps from sale. 

“You can keep this app available for new users to discover and download from the App Store by submitting an update for review in 30 days,” Apple writes in the email.

I feel sick. Apple just sent me an email saying they're removing my free game Motivoto because its more than 2 years old.

It's part of their App improvement system.

This is not cool. Console games from 2000 are still available for sale.

This is an unfair barrier to indie devs. pic.twitter.com/7XNcLfiEcR

— Protopop Games (@protopop) April 23, 2022

While Apple will delete old apps from the App Store, users' devices will retain any previously downloaded apps.

Several software creators, like Robert Kabwe of Protopop Games, have voiced their displeasure with the upcoming changes. He has not updated his app, Motivoto since March 2019. Kabwe said on Twitter that Apple is threatening to remove the fully functional game from the App Store

Developer Emilia Lazer-Walker also stated that Apple is also removing “a few” of her older games from the App Store. Several other developers have expressed similar frustrations, stating that they just haven't had the opportunity to update their products.

.@apple is removing a few of my old games b/c they have “not been updated in a significant amount of time”

Games can exist as completed objects! These free projects aren’t suitable for updates or a live service model, they’re finished artworks from years ago. pic.twitter.com/iflH70j7q4

— emilia ✨ (@lazerwalker) April 23, 2022

On the App Store Improvements page, Apple acknowledges that the changes affect all apps, not just games.  

 “We are implementing an ongoing process of evaluating apps, removing apps that no longer function as intended, don’t follow current review guidelines, or are outdated,” the company said. 

Devs are not Happy with the Move

Many have criticized the policy arguing that mobile apps should be available regardless of their age, similar to how old video games can still be played on consoles. Others argue that the regulation is overly harsh on creators. In addition, they also argue that Apple does not fully appreciate the work that goes into indie games.

Earlier this month, Google Play Store announced it will start limiting outdated apps' visibility. Developers have up to November 2022 to update their apps. With both main app stores cracking down on older apps, it's possible that some developers, particularly indie firms, will struggle to keep up.

What’s your take? What do you think of Apple's crackdown on older apps?  Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.

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