Apple has released details of an overhaul of app privacy disclosure that will affect any developer with an app on the Apple Store.

From December 8th, users will be shown information on what data apps in the App Store collect, along with details of whether the data is used to track them or is linked to them.

The announcement of future changes to user privacy was first made at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference in June. At the time Erik Neuenschwander, User Privacy Manager at Apple, described the data collection listings as being like nutritional labels on food:

"For food, you have nutrition labels; you can see if it's packed with protein or loaded with sugar, or maybe both, all before you buy it."

Apple wants users to be able to see similar information on the data they're handing over to apps they choose from the App Store:

According to Apple:

"You’ll need to provide information about your app’s privacy practices, including the practices of third-party partners whose code you integrate into your app, in App Store Connect. This information will be required to submit new apps and app updates to the App Store starting December 8, 2020."

The Apple announcement says developers will need to identify all of the data they or their third-party partners collect. Developers are responsible for keeping this info accurate and up to date.

“Collect” refers to transmitting data off the device in a way that allows the develop and/or their third-party partners to access it for a period longer than what is necessary to service the transmitted request in real time.

“Third-party partners” refers to analytics tools, advertising networks, third-party SDKs, or other external vendors whose code the developer has added to their app.

Developers can also choose to optionally disclose data that's not used for tracking purposes, meaning the data is not linked with Third-Party Data for advertising or advertising measurement purposes, or shared with a data broker.

Developers have expressed concern that the labels could put potential users off downloading and using their apps.

More Information

Data Privacy Update On Apple Developer Site

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