Apple does not put iOS apps using Core Location api in Mac App Store

Apple does not automatically place iOS apps that use the Core Location API in the Mac App Store. Developers of those apps receive an email with the request to adjust the app. Starting next week, many other iOS apps will be in the Mac App Store by default.

The Core Location api allows apps to access a rough or precise estimate of the location of the device after permission. Since the upcoming Macs with Apple’s own Arm-based M1-soc will not have GPS or cellular internet on board, location tracking is limited. Apple does not put those apps in the Mac App Store, writes 9to5Mac.

Developers can also choose not to have their apps appear in the Mac App Store. Google and Facebook, among others, have done this. If developers have not checked that their app works on macOS, it will state that the app is designed for iOS and has not been verified for macOS.

The iOS apps will appear in the Mac App Store starting Thursday, when macOS Big Sur is released. The MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac mini with Apple M1-soc will be released next week. Ultimately, Apple will equip all new Macs with a self-developed Arm-soc.

Looking back: video about the announcement of the switch to Arm