Apple Disables Promo Codes for App Store Applications with Mature (17+) Ratings
Typically, when a developer uploads a new version of an application to the App Store, they have the ability to create up to 50 promo codes, which they can then provide to media outlets for reviewing the application, give away to users in a contest, etc. Aside from some reasonable restrictions on their usage (you can't sell them, they expire after 28 days and are one-time use only), promo codes provide quite a bit of flexibility to developers of paid apps who wish to freely distribute their app to select individuals without having to worry about the hassles of exchanging device information and doing special ad-hoc builds.
Apple's restriction on promo codes for applications rated 17+ apparently stems from the fact that parental warnings are not currently displayed when redeeming promo codes. The practice is forcing developers of such applications to consider more cumbersome methods of offering free copies of their releases, from distributing ad-hoc builds through the developer channel to offering iTunes gift cards covering the cost of the applications.As TUAW notes, the category of applications rated 17+ extends far beyond the adult-themed applications that have gained attention, even including otherwise-harmless applications that include an embedded Web browser function or provide access to third-party data.
And if you're thinking this just applies to the massive number of adult-oriented apps that have recently poured into the App Store, you're wrong. Apple specifies that any application that may contain high levels of offensive language, violence, sexual content, or references to drugs or alcohol receive a rating of 17+. But, according to Apple, apps that feature an embedded web browser or provide access to 3rd party content also automatically require the 17+ rating, regardless of the application's content or intended audience.
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And or course Apple even, without warning provides unlimited access to way worse content than they will ever offer in the store - via Safari. Apple needs to understand that they cannot stop it entirely. I understand that they do not want to endorse this, but there has to be a point where Apple can say "we are only liable to this point. If you go any further, you might access material that may be offensive to you and cannot be controlled or monitored by Apple". They can cover the basics like security problems and the like, but they cannto hold back the internet. They will have to realize that sooner or later.
I would really like to know who is heading the App Store division so I can punch him in the throat. He's clearly gone mad.
Worth repeating: any app that touches the Internet must be rated 17+
What about Safari? That's the problem. Apple is providing different standards to its developers compared to their own Apps. Safari can access almost anything.
What about Safari? That's the problem.
Parental controls can also block Safari.
Parental controls can also block Safari.
And other apps as well... and the App Store for that matter. So this shouldn't be the reason.
Parental controls can also block Safari.
They can also block adult apps. That's not the point. Safari does not act like other mature apps and warns you.
Apple is applying different rules to its definition of what constitutes "mature"
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