Apple Revises Controversial Guidelines for Event and Exhibition Apps
January 4, 2018
Apple has published updated App Store guidelines, adding specific arrangement for exhibition and event mobile applications.
Apple uses the App Store Guidelines to work with app developers, to ensure that the programs offered through the company's App Store are in line with user experience standards.
In June, Apple announced iOS 11 and introduced changes to its App Review Guidelines. Among the changes was a section that had the event industry concerned:
Section 4.2.6: Apps created from a commercialized template or app generation service will be rejected.
This change was interpreted by many as a threat or even a potential death knell for branded third-party event mobile apps – and for event branding.
Kai Hattendorf, managing director/CEO of UFI, the global association of the exhibition industry, explained the issue.
"Let’s take Apple as an example: supposing we asked them to imagine offering apps for their own Apple events, doing so through an organizer called ‘Pears’,” said Hattendorf.
He continued, “According to the previous policy, they would be required to operate through a container app called ‘Pears’, which would include all Apple events.”
Organizations and companies throughout the industry reached out to Apple with their concerns – and the tech giant listened. The updated policy specifically calls out apps for exhibitions, stating that event apps can also be built on a template base or “white label” app base.
"The update marks the first time ever that Apple is citing our industry in its rules, which shows the growing awareness of the power of face to face events," Hattendorf said.
He added, “We are delighted with this news. We know from UFI research that the majority of exhibition organizers use 'white label apps' as the base for their mobile show applications, and - like many others - had reached out to Apple to share the concerns of our industry.”
The revised rule 4.2.6 now states that "... Another acceptable option for template providers is to create a single binary to host all client content in an aggregated or “picker” model, for example as ... an event app with separate entries for each client event.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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