Apple moved back a deadline to prevent iPhone and iPad developers from posting software updates to the App Store built with out-of-date tools. Developers now have three more months to upgrade.
Pushing back requiring iOS 13 SDK
Previously, developers had until March 30 to switch to the iOS 13 SDK. After that, applications built with earlier versions of this software development kit would have been automatically rejected. But today Apple extended the cutoff date until June 30, 2020.
The note just said this move was “to accommodate developers who may need additional time to update their existing apps on the App Store.” No specific reason was given, but the COVID-19 pandemic is the most likely cause.
Switch brings benefits for users
Apple’s updated requirements will bring benefits to iPhone and iPad users. Dark Mode is enabled by the iOS 13 SDK, for example.
And Sign in with Apple should become more prevalent, as it’ll be mandatory for some applications. Any app that uses Facebook Login, Google Sign-In or other third-party or social login service must also adopt Apple’s system.
Starting July 1, Apple will require updated phone apps to support all iPhone screen resolutions, and all iPad apps to support all iPad screen resolutions. Also, software for the App Store’s Kids Category must protect children’s privacy.
Source: Apple
Ed Hardy has been writing full-time about tech for 25 years, and using it for much longer than that. His intro to Apple was a Macintosh Classic II (which he still has), but now he uses a 13-inch iPad Pro as his primary computer. He’s written for NotebookReview, TabletPCReview, and Brighthand, as well as other sites.
