Apple sets the deadline for app developers for adding account delete option

Apple has sent out an alert to app developers to add an account delete option in their apps starting June 30, 2022. The feature was supposed to be initiated with app submissions starting January 31, 2022.

However, Apple extended the deadline to help developers comply with the new feature. The new deadline has been announced by the company on its developer website. The company has also asked developers to comply with local laws when it comes to recording, storing and deleting personal data of users at the time of account deletion.

Besides the feature alert, Apple also laid down some rules on what the feature should look like.

· The account deletion option should be easy to find in the app

· Users should be able to delete the app with their personal data permanently. Offering temporary deactivation and disabling options does not suffice

· User tokens should be revoked during account deletion using Sign in with Apple REST API, if the app lets users sign in with an Apple account

· Certains apps will be required to offer additional services to 'confirm and facilitate the account deletion process'

· The account deletion process should be in line with the local laws and all legal requirements in storing and retaining user account information should be met

Apple said, “As a reminder, apps that support account creation must let users initiate deletion of their account within the app starting June 30, 2022. This deadline was extended to provide additional time for implementation of this requirement.”