Apple removed the Cal AI calorie-tracking app from the App Store for multiple guideline violations, not merely for using web payments. The violations included bypassing Apple's in-app purchase (IAP) requirement by embedding a Stripe payment flow, deceptive billing design (displaying weekly pricing more prominently than actual billed amounts, obscuring auto-renewal info), and manipulative tactics like prompting declined users with a second subscription flow. Apple's App Store rules now allow U.S. developers to link to external payments following the Epic Games court ruling, but IAP must still be offered alongside external options. Cal AI fixed the issues and was reinstated. The episode signals Apple is still actively enforcing App Store rules even post-Epic ruling.
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