Apple’s iTunes App Store is probably one of the most successful digital storefronts to date. The App Store has inspired other companies to follow suit with a similar business strategy. However, fame seems to come with a hefty price tag. Several applications on the store have come under controversy, which in turn caused a knee-jerk reaction from Apple.

There have been several incidents where certain applications on the Apple iTunes Store have caused quite a stir. One of the recent stories I wrote involved Apple pulling an app that simulated baby shaking after the public outcry from several organizations.

Late last year the iTunes App Store received some attention when it approved an application that costs $999.99. An app called ‘I Am Rich,’ did absolutely nothing. The application supposedly put up a picture of a gem on the iPhone. Apple approved the application to only pull it two days later with no explanation.

The latest App Store incident involves Cartier, the famous jewelry and watch maker. The company is suing Apple for an application that displays one of its watches on the iPhone. Apple predictably proceeded to pull the application quickly.

Some have criticized Apple for not backing up its application approvals. This has caused many to question the actual approval process. How did a game that simulates baby shaking get approved in the first place? Also, does Apple check for potential trademark infringement practices in the approval process?

The answers to all of these questions are unknown, but many are starting to ask them in light of the number of applications Apple has pulled from the store. The company needs to either back its own decision or look into changing some of its policies. Apple may want to rethink about the company’s process for approving content for the iTunes App Store.

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Entry was posted on Sunday, May 24th, 2009 at 5:59 am under Apple.

Read more entries by Mike Ferro.
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