Tim Cook: Apple Hopes To Give Developers More Control Over iOS

Speaking at the D11 conference, Apple CEO Tim Cook noted that the Cupertino, Calif. company hopes to give developers more access over its mobile operating system through opening additional APIs, but comically added that Facebook's Chat Heads won't make an iOS-wide appearance. Cook explained:

The customer pays us to make choices [concerning developer control over iOS] on their behalf. But you'll see us open up more.

Known for its "closed system," Apple's tight control over its mobile operating system and App Store is one of the number of ways in which the company is able to effectively protect consumers from malware. There are, however, downsides to such rigidity, and the jailbreak scene has flourished in recent years with countless tweaks and hacks, which subvert Apple's regulations in favor of developer innovation and customization at the level of the iOS itself. Cook's comments indeed suggest that Apple is moving towards relaxing some of this control, though the extent of such a move of course remains to be seen. When asked by Kara Swisher if this means Facebook's Chat Heads could soon become iOS-wide, however, Cook noted that he's "not sure that's one" innovation Apple is planning on implementing, "but there's always more to do," he added. We'll keep you updated. In the meantime, for further D11 related news articles, see: Tim Cook Explains Apple's Current "One-A-Year" iPhone Strategy At D11, Is The iWatch Close At Hand? At D11, Apple CEO Tim Cook Says "The Wrist Is Interesting", and Apple CEO Tim Cook Confirms Jony Ive's Design Influence On iOS 7.

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