Yesterday we told you about a hidden feature in the latest version of the Camera+ iPhone application that let you use the down volume button in the application to snap your photos.
The feature was turned down by Apple, and the developer had to remove it before Apple would approve it. When the new version of the Camera+ application was submitted to Apple, you had the ability to turn this feature back on by visiting a URL in Safari.
As we suspected yesterday, as soon as Apple found out about this feature, the Camera+ iPhone app was pulled from the iTunes App Store, and today the application has now been removed.
The Controversy Surrounding the Volume Button Feature
Whilst this feature was a nice addition to the application, what the developer did wasn’t the best move, especially considering that the developer in question announced recently that the Camera+ application had generated $500,000 in gross revenue over the last 2 months. This significant revenue indicates the app’s popularity and the potential impact of its removal from the App Store.
The volume button feature was particularly appealing because it provided a more intuitive way to take photos, mimicking the physical shutter button found on traditional cameras. Users appreciated this functionality as it made the iPhone camera experience more seamless and user-friendly. However, Apple’s strict guidelines for app functionalities meant that any deviation from their standards, especially those involving hardware buttons, would not be tolerated.
Future Prospects for Camera+ and Developer Relations
Hopefully, Apple and the developer can sort things out so that the application becomes available again, although we suspect next time it appears, the volume button will no longer work to take photos. The removal of the app has sparked discussions about the balance between innovative app features and adherence to platform guidelines. Developers often push the boundaries to enhance user experience, but they must also navigate the constraints imposed by platform owners like Apple.
This incident also highlights the importance of clear communication and understanding between developers and platform regulators. While the developer’s intention was to improve the app’s functionality, bypassing Apple’s approval process was not the best approach. Moving forward, developers might need to engage more proactively with Apple to ensure that innovative features can be implemented without violating guidelines.
Moreover, this situation serves as a reminder of the power dynamics in the app ecosystem. Apple’s control over the App Store means that developers must comply with their rules to reach iPhone users. This control can sometimes stifle innovation, but it also ensures a level of quality and security for users.
The Camera+ app’s removal from the App Store due to the volume button feature underscores the ongoing tension between innovation and regulation in the app development world. While users may miss the convenient feature, it is crucial for developers to work within the established guidelines to maintain their app’s availability and success. We hope to see Camera+ back in the App Store soon, albeit with features that align with Apple’s requirements.
via TUAW
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