Apple made some major changes this week in an effort to better meet the needs of developers — and get the FTC off its back. For the first time, Apple made public the guidelines — all 113 of them — that it follows in deciding which apps get approved. Until now, the developers had little idea what Apple would consider unacceptable, and were often frustrated when their apps were turned down. Apple's revised set of rules will also now allow some apps that weren't perviously allowed, possibly opening the way for Google Voice.
Apple also relaxed some of the restraints on developers, giving them more latitude regarding which tools they can use to develop apps. This was, apparently, not only to help developers, but also to appease the FTC, which was concerned that Apple was exerting too much control over the market.
CNet has a great article outlining the changes in Apple's rulebook. Also, Macworld has a good article outlining what's in and what's out regarding the new rules — no more fart apps. And the New York Times has a helpful overview of these new developments. And the Wall Street Journal is saying that the changes weren't enough to satisfy the FTC.
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