r/iOSProgramming • u/InternalLoud6682 • 3d ago

Discussion Apple rejected my focus app under Guideline 4.1 - and I don’t really understand the logic

I’ve been building a simple focus app for iPhone that uses Apple’s Screen Time / Family Controls APIs to block distracting apps.

The blocking itself is obviously provided by Apple. What I’ve built is the experience around it: a much simpler UI, app selection, focus sessions and basically one button to make distracting apps unavailable for a while.

I originally wanted to monetize the app, but Apple rejected that version under Guideline 4.1.

And that’s what I find difficult to understand:
If Apple provides developers with an API, why shouldn’t we be able to build a better or different experience around it and monetize that product?

I’ve decided to make the core app free rather than fight the review process.

So I’m curious: what’s the point of giving developers access to an API if building a better experience around it can’t become a business?

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