Apple has removed the “Anything” app from its App Store, continuing a crackdown on a new category of tools that allow users to generate apps through natural language prompts – a process known as “vibe coding.” This move reflects Apple’s strict enforcement of App Store policies, despite the lack of explicit rules against such applications.
The Rise of Vibe Coding
Vibe coding allows individuals with limited or no traditional coding experience to create functional iOS applications using AI. The “Anything” app, along with others like Vibecode and Replit, gained traction by enabling users to simply describe the app they want, rather than writing complex code. This accessibility has led to rapid growth, but also friction with Apple’s guidelines.
Why Apple Took Action
The core issue isn’t a ban on AI itself, but on how these apps operate. Apple cites App Store Guideline 2.5.2, which requires apps to remain self-contained and prohibits the downloading or execution of external code that alters app functionality. In effect, vibe coding apps often generate and run code dynamically, violating this rule.
Apple’s stance is that apps should not fundamentally change their behavior by downloading additional code after being approved, even if that code is generated by AI.
The policy is intended to prevent malicious or unstable apps from bypassing security checks. However, the consequence is that vibe coding apps, by their nature, struggle to comply.
Bottlenecks and Approval Delays
App developers have reported increasing delays in App Store approvals this year, with some attributing the problem to the sheer volume of vibe-coded submissions. Fewer such apps mean fewer reviews for Apple, but it also means that developers may need to rely on traditional coding methods if they want to publish on iOS.
The Implications
Apple’s decision reinforces its control over the App Store ecosystem. While it doesn’t explicitly prohibit AI-assisted app development, the current guidelines effectively make it unsustainable for apps that rely on dynamic code generation. This could push developers toward more conventional coding practices or alternative platforms with less restrictive policies.
Ultimately, Apple’s move highlights the tension between innovation and control in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-powered software development.
