I Think Facebook is starting to test Apple's patience with privacy rules of apps

Apple released iOS 14.5 last week and introduced a number of features such as new Siri Voices, unlocking iPhone with your Apple Watch, and AirTags support among others. However, one change that will have the greatest impact has been the emergence of the Application Tracking Transparency framework, which has far-reaching implications for user privacy and the way its developers advertise. Facebook was not happy with this and is now starting to show users a notice that Apple might not be very tolerant.

Facebook and Instagram apps for iOS started showing a signal telling users to accept ad tracking, so it helps keep these apps free. This message appears in a push notification where Apple allows developers to indicate why they want to track their activities on apps and websites. This is important because apps now allow users to collect identity data to clearly view targeted ads.

This terrible tactic can backfire for Facebook. However, users must be told that this monitoring is necessary to keep Facebook and Instagram free. There is nothing more than a terrible trick to assure consumers that if they choose to disable ad tracking, they may have to pay a price to use these services. Apple's support page makes it clear that a system prompt should explain why a developer chooses to track users. It's definitely not a good move to scare them into believing that Facebook and Instagram free days are numbered. Previously, Facebook had accused Apple of making the changes for profit, not privacy. Apple said consumers should ask for permission. Facebook is clearly abusing it.

But that's not all. Misleading ads can take Facebook by storm. Facebook has publicly announced that it is and will always be until 2019. Of course, the company then quietly removed the line from its ad campaign, while CEO Mark Zuckerberg pointed to the possibility of a paid version of Facebook. So, what about users who sign up for Facebook primarily because the appeal of the service continues forever?

Although this prompt began appearing to users after the release of iOS 14.5, Facebook took a look at it in December last year. Facebook then attacked ad tracking and suggested changes around Apple's new policies, claiming that Apple's move would hurt small businesses. It remains to be seen how Apple reacts to intimidation tactics and whether it is engaging in behavior that violates App Store guidelines.

Apple has already made it clear that all apps must adhere to the new App Tracking Transparency framework and those who oppose it will be removed from the App Store. However, using scary tactics that force users to change their minds and allow an app to follow them is definitely not right.

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