Delve into the world of built-in app and system services available to developers. Discuss leveraging these services to enhance your app's functionality and user experience.

Posts under General subtopic

Post

Replies

Boosts

Views

Activity

DeviceActivityMonitor extension intervalDidStart never called on iOS 26.3.1
Similar Issue to FB13556935: On iOS 26.3.1, deviceactivityd produces zero log output and never wakes a DeviceActivityMonitor extension at the scheduled time, even when the schedule is successfully registered. The extension's intervalDidStart(for:) method is never called. Steps to Reproduce: Create an app with a DeviceActivityMonitor extension subclass Add the com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement to both the main app and extension targets Add a shared App Group entitlement to both targets In the main app, call: let center = DeviceActivityCenter() center.stopMonitoring([.myActivity]) let schedule = DeviceActivitySchedule( intervalStart: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 30), intervalEnd: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 45), repeats: true ) try center.startMonitoring(.myActivity, during: schedule) Verify registration succeeds: DeviceActivityCenter().activities.contains(.myActivity) returns true Background the app completely and wait for the intervalStart time (5:30 PM in this example) Expected Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is called in the extension process at 5:30 PM. ManagedSettings shields are applied without any user interaction. Actual Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is never called. No extension process is launched. Filtering Console.app for deviceactivityd on the device returns 0 messages — the daemon produces no logs whatsoever despite an active registered schedule. Shields are never applied. Additional Evidence: Third-party apps using DeviceActivity (e.g. Prayer Lock) successfully apply shields at scheduled times on the same device and OS version, confirming the framework is not universally broken Filtering Console.app for the app's bundle ID at the trigger time shows the main app process applying shields via a UNCalendarNotificationTrigger fallback — but no extension process activity DeviceActivityCenter().activities correctly lists the registered activity before and after the trigger time, confirming the schedule registration API is functional Environment: iOS 26.3.1 Physical device (required for FamilyControls) Development-signed build with com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement provisioned App Group shared between main app and extension targets
0
2
161
Mar ’26
DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier?
DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier? Application.bundleIdentifier only resolves to a non-nil value inside a DeviceActivityReportExtension (ExtensionKit/XPC). The main app and DeviceActivityMonitor extension always return nil. However, the Report Extension's sandbox silently blocks every output channel I've tested: UserDefaults (App Group): Reads succeed, writes silently dropped File writes (App Group container): Fail silently or throw HTTP requests: Network blocked entirely Local Notifications: "Couldn't communicate with a helper application" UIPasteboard: Writes silently fail iCloud KVS: synchronize() returns false Both targets share the same com.apple.security.application-groups entitlement and group identifier. The main app reads and writes to the shared container normally — only the extension's writes fail. This means resolved bundle identifiers can only be rendered in the extension's own SwiftUI view and cannot be communicated anywhere else. My question: Is this sandbox restriction intentional? If so, what is the recommended mechanism for the host app (or a backend) to obtain the resolved bundle identifiers that only the Report Extension can access? Environment: Xcode 16.3, iOS 18.3, physical device. Sample project: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DPyN2BCUt5p-RKEPA0zsDFFEvgZVHlS_/view?usp=sharing — a minimal two-target project that demonstrates every failing channel. Run on a physical device, grant Screen Time access, select apps, and observe that bundle ID resolution shows PASS but all write channels show FAIL.
4
0
206
Mar ’26
Age declaration not working when using Sandbox account with TestFlight builds
Hello I'm using this sdk DeclaredAgeRange to get the user age range When I'm doing in debug mode using sandbox account it is working as expected and I can get the user age range But when I tried in TestFlight build using sandbox account it is not working and it is always return the age range 18+ and also isEligibleForAgeFeatures API is always returning false Any advise on this?
6
5
1.2k
Mar ’26
Can Screen Time API block an app without blocking its notifications?
Hi, I’m building an iOS app called SocialLite using Apple’s Screen Time APIs, primarily FamilyControls and ManagedSettings. My goal is to block access to the Instagram app itself, while still allowing the user to receive and see Instagram notifications. Right now, when I apply the shield/block using the Screen Time API, the Instagram app is blocked as expected, but its notifications also appear to be blocked/suppressed at the same time. What I’m trying to achieve: Block the Instagram app from being opened Still allow Instagram notifications to come through normally Current behavior: The app is blocked Notifications are also blocked or no longer visible My question: Is there any supported way with Apple’s Screen Time API / ManagedSettings to shield or block an app while still allowing that app’s notifications? Or are app access and notifications tied together by design when a shield is applied? If this behavior is expected, I’d appreciate confirmation from Apple or guidance on whether there is another supported approach. Thanks.
0
1
164
Mar ’26
How to initiate native cellular calls without user confirmation from a companion app (like Meta Ray-Ban glasses)
We are building an AI-powered smart glasses companion app, similar to Meta Ray-Ban. We want to provide true hands-free calling support. Right now, whenever the app tries to dial a native cellular call, iOS shows a confirmation screen that requires the user to tap to start the call. If the user always has to confirm/tap on the phone screen, there is no real point in using smart glasses for making calls. How can we initiate a native outgoing call without any confirmation dialog or extra tap, exactly like Siri does it, or like the Meta Ray-Ban glasses do when the user says “Hey Meta, call [name]” Please guide us on the correct APIs, entitlements, or integration path to achieve this behavior. Thank you.
0
0
57
Mar ’26
iOS 17+: Spotlight only shows app-indexed keywords after 4+ characters — intended behavior or bug?
We’re seeing a change in Spotlight search behavior on iOS 17 and later: Observation: User‑visible keywords we index (e.g. via Core Spotlight / CSSearchableItemAttributeSet with keywords) only start appearing in Spotlight suggestions after the user has typed more than 3 characters. With 1–3 characters, our app’s content often doesn’t show up at all, even when it clearly matches. Before iOS 17: The same indexed content could appear with fewer characters (e.g. 1–3 characters). Environment: Reproduced on multiple devices running iOS 17.x / 18.x; behavior is consistent. We’d like to confirm: Is this a documented change in iOS 17 (e.g. minimum character threshold for third‑party Spotlight results)? If yes, where is it documented? If it’s not intentional, could this be treated as a bug and considered for a fix in a future release? We’re happy to provide a sample project or more detail if that would help. Thank you.
0
0
79
Mar ’26
Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request stuck on "Submitted" for 2+ weeks — no follow-up number received
Hello, I submitted a Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request on February 25, 2026 for my prayer/productivity app that uses the Screen Time API to block distracting apps. I also submitted requests for two extensions on March 6, 2026: com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldAction com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldConfiguration All three requests still show "Submitted" status in the Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles portal with no progress. I contacted Apple Developer Support (Case #102839422791), and they mentioned I should have received a "follow-up number" after submission — but I never received one. This entitlement is the only blocker preventing me from building and distributing my app. Could a DTS engineer please assist or escalate this? Team ID: BH752TBX9L Thank you.
1
0
95
Mar ’26
Family Controls entitlement stuck in “Submitted” for ShieldAction extension
Hi everyone, I'm running into what appears to be a stuck Family Controls entitlement request and wanted to see if anyone has experienced something similar. Request ID: 9D7MU547QH The request is still showing a status of "Submitted". Context: • Our main app bundle ID was already approved for the Family Controls entitlement. • Two related extensions (ShieldConfiguration and DeviceActivityMonitor) were also approved within a few days. • The remaining request is for a ShieldAction extension, which handles button taps from the shield UI. This entitlement is currently blocking our business's beta testing, so we’re trying to understand whether this is just normal queue delay or if the request might be stuck. Has anyone seen a case where the main app and other extensions were approved but a ShieldAction request remained in "Submitted" for an extended period? If an Apple engineer happens to see this, I’d greatly appreciate any guidance on whether the request might be stuck in the review queue. Thank you!
1
0
100
Mar ’26
Effectively distinguish API not available and real error cases
Given that we can't use isEligibleForAgeFeatures property on macOS, the documentation states that In macOS, isEligibleForAgeFeatures returns false because the system doesn’t require Age Assurance for the person or device. However, you can still call requestAgeRange in macOS to get the declared age range. But in unsuitable region the requestAgeRange request always returns DeclaredAgeRange.AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable which is vague, as it might stand for API being unavailable just as well as "You receive this error when the system prompts a person and they decide not to share their age range with your app. ", as per documentation. Unfortunately, this error fires immediately instead of showing any kind of prompt for user, so the description is definitely wrong (or incomplete) in here. Possible solutions: expand Error cases to separate not available API and not available response expand isEligibleForAgeFeatures to properly support macOS Moreover, unlike iOS, there is still no usable tool or algorithm to test given feature for macOS (mock region, mock age, mock source of approval, revoke declared range, etc). Now I get a review with rejection, stating that I don't have age verification mechanisms present in my app. Also I found out that after filling the App Information regarding Age Ratings it spreads to all fresh releases, so even though my newest macOS release doesn't contain age verification mechanisms yet, it should, as iOS release has got this functionality up and running already and I had to check this when filling Age Ratings questionnaire. Now I'm stuck between removing this capability from App Information, so the macOS release can pass and stalling macOS releases until there is a proper usable API to implement Declared Age Range verification properly (at least the same way as on iOS). How should I properly develop and test this feature for macOS before releasing it publicly?
0
0
121
Mar ’26
isEligibleForAgeFeatures: wrong minimum OS version
Dear Apple, while implementing Declared Age Range API in my app, I've noticed a mistake in documentation: the isEligibleForAgeFeatures property is marked 26.0+ in documentation, but 26.2+ in Xcode, which ultimately leads to inability to use it with OS below 26.2. Moreover, I'm thoroughly confused by this quote from documentation: This flag returns true on iOS and iPadOS based on a person’s eligibility and always returns false on macOS. It leads me to two questions: Is it possible to use Declared Age Range API for macOS apps? Will it be possible to use it in future? Will there be any changes regarding this matter in a meantime (especially after Jan 1st)? If yes - when should we expect these changes? If no - why this API declares macOS 26+ support alongside iOS/iPadOS, if it simply doesn't work for macOS now? As of now, my iOS app works flawlessly with given API (on iOS 26.2) while macOS app returns isEligibleForAgeFeatures = false and requestAgeRange request always throws AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable. Also, does it mean that one should not use isEligibleForAgeFeatures boolean while implementing Declared Age Range API for apps below iOS 26.2 (I mean 26.0+)? Or implementing given API for iOS 26.2+ is a sufficient way to go? So shouldn't the whole API be marked as 26.2+? The minimum iOS version in my app is 16.0 and minimum macOS version is 13.0 anyway, so the significant part of users is left out of these updates, but the main goal here is legal compliance.
1
0
338
Mar ’26
Apple CDN Returning HTML Instead of JSON for AASA File – Invalid Character '<' Error (Universal Links)
We are experiencing an issue where Apple’s CDN is not fetching the updated apple-app-site-association (AASA) file correctly for our domain. Domain - app.myloft-stage.com AASA File Locations (Both Return Correct JSON): https://app.myloft-stage.com/.well-known/apple-app-site-association https://app.myloft-stage.com/apple-app-site-association Both endpoints: Return HTTP 200 Return valid JSON Content-Type: application/json No redirects Valid SSL certificate JSON validated and correctly formatted Apple CDN URL - https://app-site-association.cdn-apple.com/a/v1/app.myloft-stage.com Error Returned by Apple CDN - {"cause":"invalid character '\u003c' looking for beginning of value"} This error indicates that Apple CDN is receiving HTML content (starting with <) instead of JSON, even though the origin server returns proper JSON. Observations : Direct access to AASA file returns correct JSON. Apple CDN appears to be caching an older or incorrect response. The CDN response does not match the current server response. Universal Links fail due to this incorrect AASA retrieval.
1
0
118
Mar ’26
DeviceActivityReportExtension: NSExtensionPrincipalClass required by App Store but rejected at runtime
I'm experiencing a contradictory validation issue with DeviceActivityReportExtension that creates an impossible situation: The Problem: Without NSExtensionPrincipalClass in Info.plist → App Store Connect rejects upload with: "Missing Info.plist values. No values for NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass found" With NSExtensionPrincipalClass → Local install fails with: "defines either an NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass key, which is not allowed for the extension point com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension" Setup: Extension point: com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension Using SwiftUI with @main attribute and DeviceActivityReportExtension protocol Xcode 16.2, iOS 17.6 deployment target Code structure: @main struct SpoolReport: DeviceActivityReportExtension { var body: some DeviceActivityReportScene { // Report scenes here } } The extension builds and runs perfectly without NSExtensionPrincipalClass, but cannot be uploaded to App Store Connect. Adding the key allows upload but breaks local installation. Is this a known issue? Is there a workaround or correct Info.plist configuration for DeviceActivityReportExtension? Thank you!
10
2
680
Mar ’26
Are these features possible to make in an iOS app?
Hello, I am wondering if an app that does the following is possible or is impossible due to ios limitations for apps? An app that access all sms messages, and or all phone calls logs? (goal is to save them and not have to filter them manually) An app that control OTHER apps permissions and or read permissions status of all other apps?
2
0
120
Mar ’26
Can't match the app displayName
I want to localize the app name, user the String Catalog to set en, en-US, en-CA, however, when the phone language is set to English (United States), the app name is displayed in English, while when the phone language is set to French, the app name is displayed in English-United States. However, the base language of the app settings is English. How can I make it right?
0
0
62
Mar ’26
Clarification on Payment Feature for Minor Users in E-commerce Apps due to DeclaredAgeRange (Screen Time / Family Controls API)
I am working on an e-commerce app (retail/marketplace) that allows users to place orders for both free and paid products. After receiving a DeclaredAgeRange API response — retrieved via the Family Controls / Screen Time framework — indicating that a user is a minor, I want to understand the recommended approach for handling payment flows. Specifically, is it necessary to block payments for users identified as minors via DeclaredAgeRange, even though our app uses server-side encrypted card processing rather than Apple In-App Purchases (StoreKit)? Any guidance on best practices or App Store policy requirements for this scenario would be greatly appreciated.
1
0
83
Mar ’26
LiveCommunicationKit on watchOS: Displaying visual content during active call?
Our watchOS app is exploring adding audio VOIP calling capability using our in-home platform. We are using LiveCommunicationKit for this and have that all hooked up nicely in a proof of concept implementation. Our use case is primarily based around supporting end-users through various tasks with assistance from a remotely based expert. We would like for our platform to be able to display visual content on the watch's screen during the call – in other words, we would like to be able to treat this as a video call. LiveCommunicationKit fully supports all video-related flags on watchOS and doesn't appear to have any different symbol availability versus its iOS version. This high-quality thread (https://developer.apple.com/forums/thread/798090) from a DTS engineer suggests that our use case should be valid (i.e. whiteboarding apps) and that the system's response to an accepted income video call is to dismiss the LCK's incoming call screen and bring the target app to the foreground, allowing it to render its custom content. Unfortunately, on watchOS the system doesn't seem to treat a video call any differently from an audio call, and won't dismiss the system UI once it's answered. We fully realize that Apple Watch doesn't have a camera for outbound video, doesn't support VideoToolbox or other low-level video convenience libraries for simplified rendering and decoding, etc. That's not what we're worried about (yet). The documentation is at best unclear about whether LCK (or CallKit, for that matter) can hand off calls flagged as video-compatible according to how we think they should, which is passing foreground UI over to the app once the call has been accepted by the user. Can any Apple people shed some light on this? I recognize we are probably trying to do something not many people have before.
2
0
156
Mar ’26
Clarification on Allowed Uses of VoIP Push Notifications for Ending/Updating CallKit State
Hello, I’m implementing VoIP calling in an iOS application using PushKit (VoIP pushes) together with CallKit. The standard call flow works correctly: Happy scenario User A initiates a call. Server sends a VoIP push to User B. User B’s device receives the push and reports the incoming call using CallKit. User B answers the call. However, I would like clarification about non-happy scenarios and when it is acceptable to use VoIP pushes to update or stop a CallKit ringing state. Apple documentation warns that VoIP pushes must be used only when they result in a call-related action, so I want to ensure the following cases are compliant. Scenario A — Caller Cancels Before Answer User A calls User B. Server sends a VoIP push to User B. User B’s device starts ringing via CallKit. Before User B answers, User A cancels the call. Question: Is it acceptable to send another VoIP push to User B indicating that the call has been cancelled so the device can: stop the CallKit ringing UI end the call optionally mark it as missed or cancelled Or should this state change be handled using a regular remote push or another signaling mechanism instead of VoIP push? Scenario B — Callee Rejects the Call User B rejects the call from CallKit. The server must inform User A that the call was rejected. Question: Is it acceptable to send a VoIP push to User A to update the CallKit state and terminate the outgoing call UI? Scenario C — Multiple Devices per User User B may be logged in on multiple devices. User A calls User B. VoIP push is sent to all devices of User B. One device answers. Question: Is it acceptable to send a VoIP push to the remaining devices instructing them to: stop ringing end the CallKit incoming call UI Or is there a recommended alternative pattern for this case? Main Question Aside from the initial incoming call VoIP push, in which situations is it considered acceptable to send additional VoIP pushes to terminate or update CallKit state (cancelled, rejected, answered on another device)? The goal is to remain compliant with PushKit policies, particularly the guidance that VoIP pushes should only be used when they result in a call-related user action. Any guidance on the recommended architecture for these cases would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
1
0
211
Mar ’26
Restrict app tp be installed on iPhone only
Hey everyone, I'm developing an iOS only app and want to make sure it can not be installed on iPads. Using Xcode 26, Targets/Appname/General/Supported Destination - I have iPhone only as destination and in the Info.plist I have this: UIDeviceFamily 1 UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities telephony Is there anything else need to do to make sure it can't be installed on iPads? Thanks in advance
2
0
65
Mar ’26
Clarification on Payment Feature for Minor Users in E-commerce Apps due to DeclaredAgeRange (Screen Time / Family Controls API)
I am working on an e-commerce app (retail/marketplace) that allows users to place orders for both free and paid products. After receiving a DeclaredAgeRange API response — retrieved via the Family Controls / Screen Time framework — indicating that a user is a minor, I want to understand the recommended approach for handling payment flows. Specifically, is it necessary to block payments for users identified as minors via DeclaredAgeRange, even though our app uses server-side encrypted card processing rather than Apple In-App Purchases (StoreKit)? Any guidance on best practices or App Store policy requirements for this scenario would be greatly appreciated.
0
0
68
Mar ’26
DeviceActivityMonitor extension intervalDidStart never called on iOS 26.3.1
Similar Issue to FB13556935: On iOS 26.3.1, deviceactivityd produces zero log output and never wakes a DeviceActivityMonitor extension at the scheduled time, even when the schedule is successfully registered. The extension's intervalDidStart(for:) method is never called. Steps to Reproduce: Create an app with a DeviceActivityMonitor extension subclass Add the com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement to both the main app and extension targets Add a shared App Group entitlement to both targets In the main app, call: let center = DeviceActivityCenter() center.stopMonitoring([.myActivity]) let schedule = DeviceActivitySchedule( intervalStart: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 30), intervalEnd: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 45), repeats: true ) try center.startMonitoring(.myActivity, during: schedule) Verify registration succeeds: DeviceActivityCenter().activities.contains(.myActivity) returns true Background the app completely and wait for the intervalStart time (5:30 PM in this example) Expected Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is called in the extension process at 5:30 PM. ManagedSettings shields are applied without any user interaction. Actual Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is never called. No extension process is launched. Filtering Console.app for deviceactivityd on the device returns 0 messages — the daemon produces no logs whatsoever despite an active registered schedule. Shields are never applied. Additional Evidence: Third-party apps using DeviceActivity (e.g. Prayer Lock) successfully apply shields at scheduled times on the same device and OS version, confirming the framework is not universally broken Filtering Console.app for the app's bundle ID at the trigger time shows the main app process applying shields via a UNCalendarNotificationTrigger fallback — but no extension process activity DeviceActivityCenter().activities correctly lists the registered activity before and after the trigger time, confirming the schedule registration API is functional Environment: iOS 26.3.1 Physical device (required for FamilyControls) Development-signed build with com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement provisioned App Group shared between main app and extension targets
Replies
0
Boosts
2
Views
161
Activity
Mar ’26
Nearby Interaction property supportsDirectionMeasurement returns false and NINearbyObject direction property is nil
I am trying on iOS 16.1.1 the Nearby Interaction framework. I am testing it on two iPhones 14 Pro Max. The supportsDirectionMeasurement property returns false (!) and the direction property on the NINearbyObjects is nil. Has someone experienced the same issue?
Replies
3
Boosts
1
Views
1.7k
Activity
Mar ’26
DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier?
DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier? Application.bundleIdentifier only resolves to a non-nil value inside a DeviceActivityReportExtension (ExtensionKit/XPC). The main app and DeviceActivityMonitor extension always return nil. However, the Report Extension's sandbox silently blocks every output channel I've tested: UserDefaults (App Group): Reads succeed, writes silently dropped File writes (App Group container): Fail silently or throw HTTP requests: Network blocked entirely Local Notifications: "Couldn't communicate with a helper application" UIPasteboard: Writes silently fail iCloud KVS: synchronize() returns false Both targets share the same com.apple.security.application-groups entitlement and group identifier. The main app reads and writes to the shared container normally — only the extension's writes fail. This means resolved bundle identifiers can only be rendered in the extension's own SwiftUI view and cannot be communicated anywhere else. My question: Is this sandbox restriction intentional? If so, what is the recommended mechanism for the host app (or a backend) to obtain the resolved bundle identifiers that only the Report Extension can access? Environment: Xcode 16.3, iOS 18.3, physical device. Sample project: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DPyN2BCUt5p-RKEPA0zsDFFEvgZVHlS_/view?usp=sharing — a minimal two-target project that demonstrates every failing channel. Run on a physical device, grant Screen Time access, select apps, and observe that bundle ID resolution shows PASS but all write channels show FAIL.
Replies
4
Boosts
0
Views
206
Activity
Mar ’26
Age declaration not working when using Sandbox account with TestFlight builds
Hello I'm using this sdk DeclaredAgeRange to get the user age range When I'm doing in debug mode using sandbox account it is working as expected and I can get the user age range But when I tried in TestFlight build using sandbox account it is not working and it is always return the age range 18+ and also isEligibleForAgeFeatures API is always returning false Any advise on this?
Replies
6
Boosts
5
Views
1.2k
Activity
Mar ’26
Can Screen Time API block an app without blocking its notifications?
Hi, I’m building an iOS app called SocialLite using Apple’s Screen Time APIs, primarily FamilyControls and ManagedSettings. My goal is to block access to the Instagram app itself, while still allowing the user to receive and see Instagram notifications. Right now, when I apply the shield/block using the Screen Time API, the Instagram app is blocked as expected, but its notifications also appear to be blocked/suppressed at the same time. What I’m trying to achieve: Block the Instagram app from being opened Still allow Instagram notifications to come through normally Current behavior: The app is blocked Notifications are also blocked or no longer visible My question: Is there any supported way with Apple’s Screen Time API / ManagedSettings to shield or block an app while still allowing that app’s notifications? Or are app access and notifications tied together by design when a shield is applied? If this behavior is expected, I’d appreciate confirmation from Apple or guidance on whether there is another supported approach. Thanks.
Replies
0
Boosts
1
Views
164
Activity
Mar ’26
How to initiate native cellular calls without user confirmation from a companion app (like Meta Ray-Ban glasses)
We are building an AI-powered smart glasses companion app, similar to Meta Ray-Ban. We want to provide true hands-free calling support. Right now, whenever the app tries to dial a native cellular call, iOS shows a confirmation screen that requires the user to tap to start the call. If the user always has to confirm/tap on the phone screen, there is no real point in using smart glasses for making calls. How can we initiate a native outgoing call without any confirmation dialog or extra tap, exactly like Siri does it, or like the Meta Ray-Ban glasses do when the user says “Hey Meta, call [name]” Please guide us on the correct APIs, entitlements, or integration path to achieve this behavior. Thank you.
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
57
Activity
Mar ’26
iOS 17+: Spotlight only shows app-indexed keywords after 4+ characters — intended behavior or bug?
We’re seeing a change in Spotlight search behavior on iOS 17 and later: Observation: User‑visible keywords we index (e.g. via Core Spotlight / CSSearchableItemAttributeSet with keywords) only start appearing in Spotlight suggestions after the user has typed more than 3 characters. With 1–3 characters, our app’s content often doesn’t show up at all, even when it clearly matches. Before iOS 17: The same indexed content could appear with fewer characters (e.g. 1–3 characters). Environment: Reproduced on multiple devices running iOS 17.x / 18.x; behavior is consistent. We’d like to confirm: Is this a documented change in iOS 17 (e.g. minimum character threshold for third‑party Spotlight results)? If yes, where is it documented? If it’s not intentional, could this be treated as a bug and considered for a fix in a future release? We’re happy to provide a sample project or more detail if that would help. Thank you.
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
79
Activity
Mar ’26
Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request stuck on "Submitted" for 2+ weeks — no follow-up number received
Hello, I submitted a Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request on February 25, 2026 for my prayer/productivity app that uses the Screen Time API to block distracting apps. I also submitted requests for two extensions on March 6, 2026: com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldAction com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldConfiguration All three requests still show "Submitted" status in the Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles portal with no progress. I contacted Apple Developer Support (Case #102839422791), and they mentioned I should have received a "follow-up number" after submission — but I never received one. This entitlement is the only blocker preventing me from building and distributing my app. Could a DTS engineer please assist or escalate this? Team ID: BH752TBX9L Thank you.
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
95
Activity
Mar ’26
Family Controls entitlement stuck in “Submitted” for ShieldAction extension
Hi everyone, I'm running into what appears to be a stuck Family Controls entitlement request and wanted to see if anyone has experienced something similar. Request ID: 9D7MU547QH The request is still showing a status of "Submitted". Context: • Our main app bundle ID was already approved for the Family Controls entitlement. • Two related extensions (ShieldConfiguration and DeviceActivityMonitor) were also approved within a few days. • The remaining request is for a ShieldAction extension, which handles button taps from the shield UI. This entitlement is currently blocking our business's beta testing, so we’re trying to understand whether this is just normal queue delay or if the request might be stuck. Has anyone seen a case where the main app and other extensions were approved but a ShieldAction request remained in "Submitted" for an extended period? If an Apple engineer happens to see this, I’d greatly appreciate any guidance on whether the request might be stuck in the review queue. Thank you!
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
100
Activity
Mar ’26
Effectively distinguish API not available and real error cases
Given that we can't use isEligibleForAgeFeatures property on macOS, the documentation states that In macOS, isEligibleForAgeFeatures returns false because the system doesn’t require Age Assurance for the person or device. However, you can still call requestAgeRange in macOS to get the declared age range. But in unsuitable region the requestAgeRange request always returns DeclaredAgeRange.AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable which is vague, as it might stand for API being unavailable just as well as "You receive this error when the system prompts a person and they decide not to share their age range with your app. ", as per documentation. Unfortunately, this error fires immediately instead of showing any kind of prompt for user, so the description is definitely wrong (or incomplete) in here. Possible solutions: expand Error cases to separate not available API and not available response expand isEligibleForAgeFeatures to properly support macOS Moreover, unlike iOS, there is still no usable tool or algorithm to test given feature for macOS (mock region, mock age, mock source of approval, revoke declared range, etc). Now I get a review with rejection, stating that I don't have age verification mechanisms present in my app. Also I found out that after filling the App Information regarding Age Ratings it spreads to all fresh releases, so even though my newest macOS release doesn't contain age verification mechanisms yet, it should, as iOS release has got this functionality up and running already and I had to check this when filling Age Ratings questionnaire. Now I'm stuck between removing this capability from App Information, so the macOS release can pass and stalling macOS releases until there is a proper usable API to implement Declared Age Range verification properly (at least the same way as on iOS). How should I properly develop and test this feature for macOS before releasing it publicly?
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
121
Activity
Mar ’26
isEligibleForAgeFeatures: wrong minimum OS version
Dear Apple, while implementing Declared Age Range API in my app, I've noticed a mistake in documentation: the isEligibleForAgeFeatures property is marked 26.0+ in documentation, but 26.2+ in Xcode, which ultimately leads to inability to use it with OS below 26.2. Moreover, I'm thoroughly confused by this quote from documentation: This flag returns true on iOS and iPadOS based on a person’s eligibility and always returns false on macOS. It leads me to two questions: Is it possible to use Declared Age Range API for macOS apps? Will it be possible to use it in future? Will there be any changes regarding this matter in a meantime (especially after Jan 1st)? If yes - when should we expect these changes? If no - why this API declares macOS 26+ support alongside iOS/iPadOS, if it simply doesn't work for macOS now? As of now, my iOS app works flawlessly with given API (on iOS 26.2) while macOS app returns isEligibleForAgeFeatures = false and requestAgeRange request always throws AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable. Also, does it mean that one should not use isEligibleForAgeFeatures boolean while implementing Declared Age Range API for apps below iOS 26.2 (I mean 26.0+)? Or implementing given API for iOS 26.2+ is a sufficient way to go? So shouldn't the whole API be marked as 26.2+? The minimum iOS version in my app is 16.0 and minimum macOS version is 13.0 anyway, so the significant part of users is left out of these updates, but the main goal here is legal compliance.
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
338
Activity
Mar ’26
Apple CDN Returning HTML Instead of JSON for AASA File – Invalid Character '<' Error (Universal Links)
We are experiencing an issue where Apple’s CDN is not fetching the updated apple-app-site-association (AASA) file correctly for our domain. Domain - app.myloft-stage.com AASA File Locations (Both Return Correct JSON): https://app.myloft-stage.com/.well-known/apple-app-site-association https://app.myloft-stage.com/apple-app-site-association Both endpoints: Return HTTP 200 Return valid JSON Content-Type: application/json No redirects Valid SSL certificate JSON validated and correctly formatted Apple CDN URL - https://app-site-association.cdn-apple.com/a/v1/app.myloft-stage.com Error Returned by Apple CDN - {"cause":"invalid character '\u003c' looking for beginning of value"} This error indicates that Apple CDN is receiving HTML content (starting with <) instead of JSON, even though the origin server returns proper JSON. Observations : Direct access to AASA file returns correct JSON. Apple CDN appears to be caching an older or incorrect response. The CDN response does not match the current server response. Universal Links fail due to this incorrect AASA retrieval.
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
118
Activity
Mar ’26
DeviceActivityReportExtension: NSExtensionPrincipalClass required by App Store but rejected at runtime
I'm experiencing a contradictory validation issue with DeviceActivityReportExtension that creates an impossible situation: The Problem: Without NSExtensionPrincipalClass in Info.plist → App Store Connect rejects upload with: "Missing Info.plist values. No values for NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass found" With NSExtensionPrincipalClass → Local install fails with: "defines either an NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass key, which is not allowed for the extension point com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension" Setup: Extension point: com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension Using SwiftUI with @main attribute and DeviceActivityReportExtension protocol Xcode 16.2, iOS 17.6 deployment target Code structure: @main struct SpoolReport: DeviceActivityReportExtension { var body: some DeviceActivityReportScene { // Report scenes here } } The extension builds and runs perfectly without NSExtensionPrincipalClass, but cannot be uploaded to App Store Connect. Adding the key allows upload but breaks local installation. Is this a known issue? Is there a workaround or correct Info.plist configuration for DeviceActivityReportExtension? Thank you!
Replies
10
Boosts
2
Views
680
Activity
Mar ’26
Are these features possible to make in an iOS app?
Hello, I am wondering if an app that does the following is possible or is impossible due to ios limitations for apps? An app that access all sms messages, and or all phone calls logs? (goal is to save them and not have to filter them manually) An app that control OTHER apps permissions and or read permissions status of all other apps?
Replies
2
Boosts
0
Views
120
Activity
Mar ’26
Can't match the app displayName
I want to localize the app name, user the String Catalog to set en, en-US, en-CA, however, when the phone language is set to English (United States), the app name is displayed in English, while when the phone language is set to French, the app name is displayed in English-United States. However, the base language of the app settings is English. How can I make it right?
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
62
Activity
Mar ’26
Clarification on Payment Feature for Minor Users in E-commerce Apps due to DeclaredAgeRange (Screen Time / Family Controls API)
I am working on an e-commerce app (retail/marketplace) that allows users to place orders for both free and paid products. After receiving a DeclaredAgeRange API response — retrieved via the Family Controls / Screen Time framework — indicating that a user is a minor, I want to understand the recommended approach for handling payment flows. Specifically, is it necessary to block payments for users identified as minors via DeclaredAgeRange, even though our app uses server-side encrypted card processing rather than Apple In-App Purchases (StoreKit)? Any guidance on best practices or App Store policy requirements for this scenario would be greatly appreciated.
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
83
Activity
Mar ’26
LiveCommunicationKit on watchOS: Displaying visual content during active call?
Our watchOS app is exploring adding audio VOIP calling capability using our in-home platform. We are using LiveCommunicationKit for this and have that all hooked up nicely in a proof of concept implementation. Our use case is primarily based around supporting end-users through various tasks with assistance from a remotely based expert. We would like for our platform to be able to display visual content on the watch's screen during the call – in other words, we would like to be able to treat this as a video call. LiveCommunicationKit fully supports all video-related flags on watchOS and doesn't appear to have any different symbol availability versus its iOS version. This high-quality thread (https://developer.apple.com/forums/thread/798090) from a DTS engineer suggests that our use case should be valid (i.e. whiteboarding apps) and that the system's response to an accepted income video call is to dismiss the LCK's incoming call screen and bring the target app to the foreground, allowing it to render its custom content. Unfortunately, on watchOS the system doesn't seem to treat a video call any differently from an audio call, and won't dismiss the system UI once it's answered. We fully realize that Apple Watch doesn't have a camera for outbound video, doesn't support VideoToolbox or other low-level video convenience libraries for simplified rendering and decoding, etc. That's not what we're worried about (yet). The documentation is at best unclear about whether LCK (or CallKit, for that matter) can hand off calls flagged as video-compatible according to how we think they should, which is passing foreground UI over to the app once the call has been accepted by the user. Can any Apple people shed some light on this? I recognize we are probably trying to do something not many people have before.
Replies
2
Boosts
0
Views
156
Activity
Mar ’26
Clarification on Allowed Uses of VoIP Push Notifications for Ending/Updating CallKit State
Hello, I’m implementing VoIP calling in an iOS application using PushKit (VoIP pushes) together with CallKit. The standard call flow works correctly: Happy scenario User A initiates a call. Server sends a VoIP push to User B. User B’s device receives the push and reports the incoming call using CallKit. User B answers the call. However, I would like clarification about non-happy scenarios and when it is acceptable to use VoIP pushes to update or stop a CallKit ringing state. Apple documentation warns that VoIP pushes must be used only when they result in a call-related action, so I want to ensure the following cases are compliant. Scenario A — Caller Cancels Before Answer User A calls User B. Server sends a VoIP push to User B. User B’s device starts ringing via CallKit. Before User B answers, User A cancels the call. Question: Is it acceptable to send another VoIP push to User B indicating that the call has been cancelled so the device can: stop the CallKit ringing UI end the call optionally mark it as missed or cancelled Or should this state change be handled using a regular remote push or another signaling mechanism instead of VoIP push? Scenario B — Callee Rejects the Call User B rejects the call from CallKit. The server must inform User A that the call was rejected. Question: Is it acceptable to send a VoIP push to User A to update the CallKit state and terminate the outgoing call UI? Scenario C — Multiple Devices per User User B may be logged in on multiple devices. User A calls User B. VoIP push is sent to all devices of User B. One device answers. Question: Is it acceptable to send a VoIP push to the remaining devices instructing them to: stop ringing end the CallKit incoming call UI Or is there a recommended alternative pattern for this case? Main Question Aside from the initial incoming call VoIP push, in which situations is it considered acceptable to send additional VoIP pushes to terminate or update CallKit state (cancelled, rejected, answered on another device)? The goal is to remain compliant with PushKit policies, particularly the guidance that VoIP pushes should only be used when they result in a call-related user action. Any guidance on the recommended architecture for these cases would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Replies
1
Boosts
0
Views
211
Activity
Mar ’26
Restrict app tp be installed on iPhone only
Hey everyone, I'm developing an iOS only app and want to make sure it can not be installed on iPads. Using Xcode 26, Targets/Appname/General/Supported Destination - I have iPhone only as destination and in the Info.plist I have this: UIDeviceFamily 1 UIRequiredDeviceCapabilities telephony Is there anything else need to do to make sure it can't be installed on iPads? Thanks in advance
Replies
2
Boosts
0
Views
65
Activity
Mar ’26
Clarification on Payment Feature for Minor Users in E-commerce Apps due to DeclaredAgeRange (Screen Time / Family Controls API)
I am working on an e-commerce app (retail/marketplace) that allows users to place orders for both free and paid products. After receiving a DeclaredAgeRange API response — retrieved via the Family Controls / Screen Time framework — indicating that a user is a minor, I want to understand the recommended approach for handling payment flows. Specifically, is it necessary to block payments for users identified as minors via DeclaredAgeRange, even though our app uses server-side encrypted card processing rather than Apple In-App Purchases (StoreKit)? Any guidance on best practices or App Store policy requirements for this scenario would be greatly appreciated.
Replies
0
Boosts
0
Views
68
Activity
Mar ’26