Apple Pulls E2E iCloud Encryption in UK, Boots 135K+ 'Non-Compliant' Apps from EU App Store

• Apple has removed its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) tool for new customers in the UK after the government demanded "backdoor" access to encrypted user data. ADP is an opt-in feature used for protecting sensitive user data, such as iCloud files, photos, notes and other stuff.

"Apple can no longer offer Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the United Kingdom to new users and current UK users will eventually need to disable this security feature," Apple spokesperson Julien Trosdorf told The Verge.

• Apple expressed grave disappointment over this decision, stating it will make UK users more vulnerable to data breaches and other security threats.
• Meanwhile in the EU, Apple removed over 135,000 'non-compliant' apps from the EU App Store to comply with the EU's Digital Services Act, marking the largest removal of independent apps in the platform's history.

"As of today, apps without trader status have been removed from the App Store in the European Union (EU) until trader status is provided and verified by Apple," the company announced on February 18th.

• Under the DSA, any app generating revenue through paid downloads, in-app purchases, or advertising on the App Store is considered a "trader." As such, app developers are required to disclose their trader status and provide essential contact information, such as an address, phone number, and email.
• Other major platforms such as Google's Play Store, Chrome Web Store or Microsoft Store are also enforcing similar measures for developers seeking to distribute their apps in the EU, potentially limiting the discoverability or functionality of 'non-compliant' apps.

The Verge Article / Archive
Reuters Article / Archive
TechCrunch Article / Archive
DSA Announcement / Archive

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