Apple has always erred on the side of caution when it comes approving questionable applications that are submitted for the App Store. This time, Apple has decided it isn’t alright for people to be throwing virtual shoes at George W. Bush.
In December 2008, an Iraqi reporter decided it would be a good idea to throw his shoes at George W. Bush. The incident ended up creating a few laughs and making the news, if you haven’t seen it I recommend checking out the video on YouTube.
Apparently Apple doesn’t think the incident was nearly as funny. According to Mashable, a developer based in Pakistan submitted an application called MyShoe. MyShoe is a simple accelerometer based application that allows users to virtually throw a shoe at the former president. Apple denied the application placement at the App Store and responded to the developer stating:
“We cannot post this version of your iPhone application to the App Store because it contains content that ridicules public figures.”
The developer responded to Apple’s rejection with this statement:
“I feel this is huge discrimination against public opinion, as major portion of world rejects bush polices on Iraq and attacks on Pakistan.”
I won’t go anywhere near the ethics involved in this whole situation but all I have to say is developers should heed this warning, do not make applications for the App Store that ridicule public figures because you will be wasting your time.
You miss the point. The developer knew very well it would not be accepted. I hope developers do indeed continue to make what ever application they want. One day we might actually get the chance to make the decision for ourselves whether we want to download and use an application, rather than having Apple acting as the supreme leader/filter.
@Kian – I don’t think it’s fair to assume that the developer simply created the application to prove a point. It is in Apple’s best interest to not allow applications of this nature, especially when it has to do with political figures. I doubt Apple would have a problem with someone making an application that throws an object at say, Paris Hilton.
It’s Apple’s device. Play by their rules or dont play at all. Makes good business sense to me!