iOS 18.2 marks a turning point for the iPhone: Apple tightens rules and some apps could disappear from the App Store

A new standard of quality in the App Store

Apple has been steadily increasing its quality standards on the App Store. With the arrival of iOS 18.2, the Cupertino giant has announced changes to its retention policies for apps that do not meet new security, performance and compatibility standards. The company has stated that apps that are not updated or that have significant bugs could be removed.

This represents a radical change that seeks, according to Apple, “to guarantee the best possible experience for users and ensure that the apps in its store meet optimal standards of security and functionality.”

Highlights of iOS 18.2

iOS 18.2 introduces several improvements and features that directly impact the daily use of the iPhone. Among the most notable are:

1. Siri AI Optimization: A new version of Siri that learns from user interactions and adjusts its responses based on user preferences.
2. Improvements in battery management: Includes automatic adjustments to maximize device autonomy without compromising performance.
3. New privacy tools: Location permissions and app tracking transparency have been improved, giving users more control over what data they share.

Consequences for developers

For developers, iOS 18.2 represents a challenge. Apple has asked app creators to review and update their products to comply with new security and performance guidelines. This means that many older apps or apps that are no longer supported by their developers are at risk of being removed from the App Store.

The company has given developers 90 days to update their apps. This change has been welcomed by the community, as older apps may have compatibility issues or vulnerabilities that affect the user experience. However, it also raises concerns among independent developers who manage multiple apps and may be overwhelmed by the workload of updating.

How does this affect users?

For users, iOS 18.2 represents the assurance of a safer and more trustworthy App Store. However, it also means that some of their favourite apps could disappear if their developers fail to adapt to the new regulations. Apple has made it clear that this update is intended to benefit users in terms of security and performance, but it could have the side effect of reducing the variety of apps available in the store.

The company has enabled notifications so that users receive alerts when one of their apps is at risk of being removed due to lack of updates, allowing them to take action before it is too late.

The future of the App Store and the evolution of iOS

The introduction of iOS 18.2 seems to signal a trend at Apple towards a more secure and controlled ecosystem. By encouraging constant updates and removing those apps that do not meet quality standards, the company ensures a smoother and more reliable experience for iPhone users.

This update also raises questions about the balance between innovation and stability in app development. As Apple adjusts its policies, both users and developers will have to adapt to an environment where quality and security are top priorities.

Conclusion

iOS 18.2 represents a significant shift for Apple's ecosystem, where quality and security have become a priority. Developers are faced with a new challenge, while users will enjoy a more secure and up-to-date App Store, albeit at the possible sacrifice of some apps. It is clear that this move positions Apple as a leader in user protection and in the evolution of mobile applications.