TUAW is reporting that Apple is now rejecting all e-book reader iPhone application submissions. The idea behind this move is that these applications are often used to distribute content the applications’ authors do not hold publication rights to. So, instead of reviewing each submitted application’s publication rights, Apple is simply rejecting these apps altogether. TUAW has learned […]
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Apple Rejecting All e-Book App Store Submissions?

Aug 6th 2009 by

TUAW is reporting that Apple is now rejecting all e-book reader iPhone application submissions. The idea behind this move is that these applications are often used to distribute content the applications’ authors do not hold publication rights to. So, instead of reviewing each submitted application’s publication rights, Apple is simply rejecting these apps altogether.

TUAW has learned that Apple has begun rejecting all e-book submissions because “this category of applications is often used for the purpose of infringing upon third party rights. We have chosen to not publish this type of application to the App Store.” At first glance, this policy seems in line with Apple’s approach to applications that promise charitable contributions. Apple cannot police the developers and will not allow possibly fraudulent postings on their store. Apple does not want to be in the position of vetting rights claims.

This new policy seems to extend to everyone submitting a e-book application. Even the ones that can prove they have publication rights to their content.

This immediately brings to mind the rumored Apple tablet and the possibility of Apple entering the e-book market. If this is the case and Apple is deliberately stifling competition, the government regulatory agencies, who are already interested in Apple, will likely have a fit.

I don’t think the management at Apple is that stupid, even if (BIG if) they are becoming greedy I can’t see them making such a gaffe.

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