Apple Removes and Restores Cal AI Over Payment Rule Breaches

7 articles · Updated · 9to5Mac · Apr 21

Apple temporarily removed the calorie-tracking app Cal AI from the App Store for multiple rule violations, including bypassing required in-app purchase options.
Cal AI used a third-party payment system and displayed misleading subscription pricing, prompting user complaints and accusations of deceptive billing practices.
After addressing Apple’s concerns, Cal AI was restored to the App Store, highlighting Apple’s continued strict enforcement of payment and transparency guidelines post-Epic ruling.

Does this scandal threaten MyFitnessPal's plan to build a 'Nutrition OS' around its newly acquired Cal AI technology?

Is Apple's crackdown on Cal AI a genuine user protection effort or a way to control its lucrative App Store?

Will the global regulatory war on manipulative design finally force all app stores to enforce transparent billing?

After being called out for 'dark patterns,' can apps that use deceptive billing tactics ever truly regain user trust?

With courts and regulators circling, how long can Apple maintain its 'walled garden' and profitable commission structure?