9to5Mac has reported on changes made by Apple regarding the app review guidelines for the App Store, specifically regarding login services. Although a minor adjustment, it is a significant one that is worth noting.
This dates back to 2019 when Apple introduced iOS 13, along with a privacy-centric login service called “Sign in with Apple.” This service ensures user privacy by not sharing any personal information with service providers. Additionally, Apple made it mandatory for apps to support Sign in with Apple if they offered alternative login options through third-party services. However, exceptions are made for in-house apps, email, or social media apps.
In the latest update to the app review guidelines, Apple has revised the language from stating that apps must offer Sign in with Apple to now requiring apps that use third-party login services (such as Facebook Login, Google Sign-In, and Sign in with Twitter) to provide alternative login options. These alternative login services must limit data collection, keep email information private, and not track users across other apps.
This change applies to the App Store worldwide and is not limited to just the European Union. However, it raises questions about which alternative login services comply with the guidelines, as Sign in with Apple seems to be the only explicitly mentioned option. It could be interpreted as Apple not mandating a specific service but rather ensuring that all alternative login services meet the stated requirements.
TLDR: Apple has updated its app review guidelines, requiring apps that use third-party login services to provide alternative login options that prioritize user privacy. This change applies globally and raises questions about which services comply with the guidelines. However, Sign in with Apple remains the only explicitly mentioned option.
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