Apple Developer Program License Agreement Updated

Apple has issued a new update to the Apple Developer Program License Agreement, introducing revised requirements for several specialized technical frameworks and data privacy standards. The update requires developers to sign in to their accounts to accept the new terms to maintain their standing within the program.

New Framework Requirements and Privacy Updates

The latest revisions focus heavily on the definitions and usage requirements for specific developer tools. Under Section 3.3.3(B) and Section 3.3.7(K), Apple has specified new requirements for the use of the Foveated Streaming framework. Foveated streaming is a technique used to reduce the rendering workload by decreasing image quality in the peripheral vision, which is critical for high-performance spatial computing and VR environments.

Alongside the Foveated Streaming updates, Apple has clarified data privacy requirements associated with these tools. Section 3.3.3(Q) now contains specified requirements for developers utilizing the Family Controls framework, which allows apps to help parents manage their children’s device usage.

The agreement also expands its scope regarding accessory integration. Section 3.3.7(J) now outlines specified requirements for the use of the Accessory Notifications framework and the Accessory Live Activities framework, which govern how third-party hardware interacts with Apple’s notification and real-time status systems.

Context of Recent Agreement Revisions

These changes follow a pattern of frequent updates to the developer agreement throughout late 2025 and early 2026. On October 8, 2025, Apple updated the agreement to include requirements for interpreted code, the Location Push Service Extension, and terms related to the EU Data Act (Regulation (EU) 2023/2854) specifically concerning Xcode Cloud and CloudKit.

Further updates were implemented on December 17 and 18, 2025. Those revisions introduced requirements for voice-based conversational apps launched via the iPhone side button, as well as terms for the Significant App Topic Update API and the Declared Age Range API. The December updates also introduced Japan-specific terms regarding alternative distribution and payments, and specified the right for Apple to offset or recoup amounts owed under Schedules 2 and 3.

Distribution and Compliance

The Apple Developer Program License Agreement governs how applications for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, visionOS, and watchOS are developed and distributed. Currently, applications can be distributed through the App Store, on a limited basis for Registered Devices, or via TestFlight for beta testing.

Depending on the monetization model, developers must adhere to different schedules. Those distributing free applications follow the terms in Schedule 1. Developers who charge a fee for their applications or use the In-App Purchase API for fee-based content must enter into Schedule 2, while those distributing paid applications via Custom App Distribution must enter into Schedule 3.

Apple has stated that translations of the updated agreement will be made available on the Apple Developer website within one month of the announcement.