Google has recently disabled a private iOS app that monitored users iPhone usage, after it was revealed today that the app violated Apple’s distribution policies.
The Screenwise Meter is an iOS and Android app provides users who have opted into Google’s Opinion Rewards program a gift cards in exchange for tracking their internet usage data.
The iOS version of the app relied on Apple’s enterprise program, which allows for the distribution of apps with special privileges to be used only by a company’s employees. The app has now been disabled on iOS app store.
A Google spokesperson said: The Screenwise Meter iOS app should not have operated under Apple’s developer enterprise program this was a mistake, and we apologize. We have disabled this app on iOS devices. This app is completely voluntary and always has been. We’ve been upfront with users about the way we use their data in this app, we have no access to encrypted data in apps and on devices, and users can opt out of the program at any time.
At the moment the company hasn’t said anything about what action will be taken regarding the violation so until any details are provided all we can do is wait.
