Apple has announced that any apps that are submitted to their app store after the 1st of June 2016 must support IPv6.
The company announced the change to IPv6-only network services at last year’s Worldwide Developer Conference.
At WWDC 2015 we announced the transition to IPv6-only network services in iOS 9. Starting June 1, 2016 all apps submitted to the App Store must support IPv6-only networking. Most apps will not require any changes because IPv6 is already supported by NSURLSession and CFNetwork APIs.
If your app uses IPv4-specific APIs or hard-coded IP addresses, you will need to make some changes.
Why the Transition to IPv6?
IPv6, or Internet Protocol version 6, is the most recent version of the Internet Protocol (IP), which is the system that allows devices to communicate over the internet. The transition to IPv6 is crucial because the older IPv4 system has a limited number of IP addresses, and we are running out of them due to the exponential growth of internet-connected devices. IPv6 provides a vastly larger address space, which is essential for the continued expansion of the internet.
IPv6 also brings several improvements over IPv4, including better security features, more efficient routing, and improved support for mobile networks. By requiring apps to support IPv6, Apple is ensuring that its ecosystem is future-proof and can handle the increasing number of devices and services that rely on internet connectivity.
What Developers Need to Know
For most developers, the transition to IPv6 will be seamless. Apple’s APIs, such as NSURLSession and CFNetwork, already support IPv6, so apps that use these APIs will not require any changes. However, developers who use IPv4-specific APIs or hard-coded IP addresses will need to update their apps to ensure compatibility with IPv6.
Here are some steps developers can take to prepare their apps for IPv6:
1. Avoid Hard-Coded IP Addresses: Instead of using hard-coded IP addresses, use domain names that can be resolved to either IPv4 or IPv6 addresses.
2. Use High-Level Networking APIs: Apple’s high-level networking APIs, such as NSURLSession and CFNetwork, automatically handle IPv6. Using these APIs can simplify the transition.
3. Test Your App on an IPv6 Network: Apple provides a guide on how to set up an IPv6-only network for testing purposes. Testing your app in this environment can help identify any issues that need to be addressed.
By following these steps, developers can ensure that their apps are ready for the transition to IPv6 and continue to provide a seamless experience for users.
Impact on Users and the App Ecosystem
The transition to IPv6 is not just a technical requirement; it has significant implications for users and the broader app ecosystem. For users, the move to IPv6 can lead to faster and more reliable internet connections, especially as more devices and services come online. IPv6’s improved security features also mean that users can enjoy a safer online experience.
For the app ecosystem, the transition to IPv6 ensures that apps can continue to function as the internet evolves. It also encourages developers to adopt best practices in networking, which can lead to more robust and maintainable code. By mandating IPv6 support, Apple is setting a standard that other platforms may follow, further accelerating the adoption of IPv6 across the industry.
You can find out more details about the changes to app submissions to the Apple App Store over at the company’s developer website at the link below.
Source Apple
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