App Store Policy Changes - 2025
Important Note
The policy changes listed below are for informational purposes only to help you better understand trends and directions in app store compliance. They do not represent the current full list of compliance requirements or review criteria.
If you have any questions, please contact us.
Stay informed about important regulatory and policy changes introduced by Chinese app stores in 2025 that may affect app distribution and compliance requirements.
January 2025
Privacy Policy Standardization Requirements Updated
App stores updated the Privacy Policy Submission and Content Requirements, with key focus areas:
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If the privacy policy states that collected personal information (e.g., search history, browsing data, usage habits) will be used for personalized recommendation, targeted delivery, or precision marketing, then the app must:
- Clearly identify the presence of such personalized recommendation services within the app. This can be done through labels like "Personalized", "Recommendations", "You may also like", or separate content sections.
- Provide users with a mechanism to opt out of personalized recommendations, such as a toggle or settings option to disable such features.
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The list of standardized personal information naming conventions and their equivalents has been updated.
- For example:
- "Phone Status" may also appear as “Call Status”, “Mobile Network Info”, or “Device Info”.
- "OAID" may also be referred to as “Anonymous Device Identifier”.
- For example:
February 2025
Prohibited App Types Updated
According to the updated Non-Admissible Categories List, apps involving real currency participation in random gameplay mechanics (e.g., betting, gambling-style gacha draws, or guessing outcomes) are now prohibited if they resemble gambling behavior.
Malicious Behavior Definitions Updated
The Malware & Malicious Behavior List has been refreshed. New prohibitions include:
- Triggering hidden tasks or actions not visible to or detectable by users.
- Adding desktop widgets or cards without clear prompts or user consent.
March 2025
New Qualification Requirement: Judicial Auction Apps
App stores introduced a qualification requirement for apps in the Judicial Auction category:
- Must provide proof of inclusion in the official list of judicial auction platforms approved by the Supreme People's Court.
- If operating as a third-party auxiliary service provider, must provide court-disclosed information, commission contracts, authorization letters, or official statements describing the nature of services.
Content Review Guidelines Updated
The App Review FAQ and Meta-Service Review FAQ have been updated with a focus on content compliance.
Prohibited content includes (but is not limited to):
- Content that endangers national security, discloses state secrets, incites subversion, or undermines national unity.
- Content that insults or distorts the deeds of national heroes and martyrs, or infringes upon their honor or reputation.
- Content promoting terrorism, extremism, or incitement to such activities.
Personal Information Protection FAQ Updated
App stores updated the Common Personal Information Protection Issues FAQ with key requirements for SDK disclosure:
- Completeness: All SDKs used by the app must be explicitly listed in the privacy policy.
- Accuracy: SDK information must match the national SDK management platform records, including SDK name, developer, data collected, purpose of use, and privacy policy URL.
- Security & Compliance: Apps must avoid using outdated or non-compliant SDKs. Developers must replace or update risky SDKs immediately.
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