Apple Inc (AAPL)

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Apple now allows apps to send ads as push notifications, but only if users explicitly opt in

https://macdailynews.com/2020/03/04/apple-now-allows-apps-to-send-ads-as-push-notifications-but-only-if-users-explicitly-opt-in/

Apps available on Apple’s App Store can now send ads, promotions, and direct marketing as push notifications if users have explicitly opted in to receive them.

App push notification ads. Image: iOS push notifications
iOS push notifications

Steven Musil for CNET:

The updated guidelines, announced Wednesday, mean that users who choose to opt in will see ads show up on their Apple devices alongside text messages and breaking news alerts.

Apple also announced Wednesday that apps categorized as “dating” or “fortune telling” would be rejected “unless they provide a unique, high-quality experience.”

MacDailyNews Take: As long as push notification ads are opt-in and users can easily and quickly opt-out, this is not an issue. Some users might want the ads. Imagine an app for collectors of vintage sneakers that would push info that a rare pair of shoes just went up for sale. That sort of thing.