Well, that didn’t last long. Yesterday, we reported on a tethering application for the iPhone that had turned up in the iTunes App Store, called iTether. Now, Apple has removed the application from the App Store.
The developers of the application, Tether, were contacted by Apple yesterday and informed that the application would be removed from the App Store. Apple stated that the application would be a burden to the carrier networks.
Around 12PM EST, Apple called our head office to let us know they were going to go ahead and pull our app iTether from the App Store. They stated it was because the app itself burdens the carrier network, however they offered us no way to remedy the solution… We were very clear when listing the app what the primary function was and they even followed up with several questions and requested a video demo then they approved the application.
Understanding Tethering and Its Implications
Tethering allows a smartphone to share its internet connection with other devices, such as laptops or tablets. This can be incredibly useful for users who need internet access on the go but do not have a separate mobile data plan for their other devices. However, tethering can significantly increase data usage, which can strain carrier networks, especially if many users are tethering simultaneously.
Apple’s decision to remove iTether from the App Store highlights the ongoing tension between app developers and mobile carriers. Carriers often have concerns about apps that enable tethering because they can lead to increased data consumption, potentially causing network congestion. This is particularly problematic for carriers with limited bandwidth or those who charge for data usage based on tiers.
The Future of Tethering Apps
It looks like anyone who has already purchased the application will still be able to use it, and the company behind the application has said that they are evaluating their options. However, we suspect they really won’t have much of a chance of getting the app back in the App Store.
The removal of iTether raises questions about the future of tethering apps on the iOS platform. While some carriers offer official tethering options as part of their service plans, these are often more expensive than standard data plans. As a result, users may seek out third-party apps like iTether to avoid additional charges. However, these apps often face scrutiny and potential removal due to the reasons mentioned earlier.
For developers, this situation underscores the importance of understanding and navigating the policies of both app stores and mobile carriers. While creating innovative solutions is crucial, ensuring that these solutions comply with existing regulations and do not negatively impact network performance is equally important.
The removal of iTether from the App Store serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between app developers, mobile carriers, and platform providers like Apple. As technology continues to evolve, finding a balance that satisfies all parties involved will remain a challenging but essential task.
Source: Mac Rumors
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
