Ahead of the June 30, 2022 deadline, Apple has reminded developers that if they offer users an option to create new accounts from their app, they must also provide a way to delete them.
Apple first announced this change in June last year, with the rule initially set to go into force by January 31, 2022. However, due to the complexity involved, the company delayed its implementation by five months to give developers additional time.
Apple wants you to have even more control over your data
The App Store Review Guideline 5.1.1(v) states that if an app supports account creation, you [developers] must also offer account deletion within the app.” Currently, the majority of the iOS apps allow users to create a new account easily. Only a few developers also offer the option to delete the created account right from their app.
Apple aims to provide iPhone and iPad users with even more control over their data with this impending change.
The Cupertino company previously shared the following requirements with developers for implementing the account deletion feature:
- The account deletion option should be easy to find in your app.
- It’s insufficient to only provide the ability to temporarily disable or deactivate an account. People should be able to delete the account along with their personal data.
- Apps in highly-regulated industries may need to provide additional support flows to confirm and facilitate the account deletion process.
- Follow applicable legal requirements for storing and retaining user account information. This includes complying with local laws in different countries or regions. As always, check with your legal counsel.
The requirements make it clear that apps must offer a straightforward way for user account deletion and the associated data. The process should not require any additional steps, like reaching out to the helpdesk or sending an email to customer support. Only in cases of high-regulated industries can developers introduce additional support flows for account deletion.
If you are a developer, you can find more information about this App Store Guideline on Apple’s Developer website.
