Google to Add App Store Privacy Labels to Its iOS Apps This Week

Contrary to recent reports, Google is not delaying updates to its iOS apps due to a reluctance to comply with Apple’s newly announced App Store Privacy Labels policy. The policy, which is part of Apple’s broader push for user privacy, requires developers to disclose how data is collected from App Store users and used to track them.

TechCrunch Investigation

We at TechCrunch looked into the situation surrounding Google’s iOS app updates after a recent story by Fast Company speculated that Google was hesitant to be transparent about its data collection practices. The report noted that none of Google’s apps had been updated since December 7, 2020 – just one day before Apple’s new privacy label requirements took effect on the App Store.

However, upon closer inspection, we found that two of Google’s apps did receive updates after the deadline, but these updates did not include privacy labels. Google Slides, a slideshow presentation app and one of Google’s most significant offerings in the productivity space, was updated on December 14, 2020. Similarly, Socratic by Google, a homework helper and the No. 7 free app in the Education category, received an update on December 15.

Timing is Everything

At first glance, it may seem that Google is sidestepping Apple’s new rules by delaying updates to its iOS apps. However, we must also consider that a slowdown in December app updates is not unusual. Many developers take advantage of the holiday season to push out updates, and Apple’s App Store itself shuts down over Christmas and New Year’s.

Additionally, large companies like Google often observe a code freeze during this period to avoid causing disruptions to their products and services when staff are away on vacation.

App Privacy Labels: A Concern for Big Tech

While it is true that app privacy labels may be a concern for Google given its primary business model of advertising, the company has confirmed that they are taking these requirements seriously. In fact, executives are reportedly meeting to discuss how best to comply with the new policy.

However, Google is not alone in this regard. Other major app publishers like Amazon and Pinterest have yet to update their apps with privacy labels as of our knowledge cutoff.

Google’s Response

We reached out to a Google spokesperson for comment on the matter, who confirmed that the company has a plan to add privacy labels across its iOS app catalog. They also stated that these labels are expected to begin rolling out as soon as this week or next week, although an exact date was not provided.

Implications

The introduction of app privacy labels by Apple is a significant development in the tech industry, and one that will likely have far-reaching implications for developers and users alike. By requiring transparency around data collection practices, Apple is pushing the industry towards greater accountability and trust.

As we continue to monitor this situation, it will be interesting to see how other companies respond to this new policy and whether Google’s eventual rollout of app privacy labels sets a precedent for the rest of the industry.

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