14 DAY TRIAL // Apple mistakenly approved and then quickly removed a WikiLeaks iOS application developed by Hint Solutions for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users. According to a cached Google search, the app, which gave instant access to the world’s most documented leakage of top secret memos and other confidential government documents, sold for $1.99.
It is likely that Apple didn’t have a problem with the app’s offerings, despite the service being already controversial, but rather the app’s price.
As TechCrunch points out, the paid app was selling content that was otherwise available for free.
Queried on the rejection, developer Igor Barinov responded with a screenshot of his iTunes Connect official status update for the WikiLeaks app. The status of the app is “removed from sale”.
According to the app’s iTunes description (now only available via Google’s cache), the Wikileaks app reflected old and recent cable updates, WikiLeaks Tweets and the WikiLeaks Website completely formatted for iPhone and iPad.
“Because of its intelligent platform, the app will continue to feed content regardless of server disruptions,” Hint Solutions said. “It is your duty to stay informed – Get Wikileaks app today for just $1.99!”
According to the developer, $1 from every copy sold would have gone to organizations that work to promote the future of online democracy.
“Internet democracy requires funds to stay strong. By purchasing the Wikileaks app, you donate 1 dollar of the purchase price towards organizations that work to promote the future of online democracy,” Hint Solutions said.
Igor Barinov does not provide additional details regarding the actual reason of rejection, though Apple is known to send formal letters to devs whose apps get rejected.
As noted over at CrunchBase, WikiLeaks is a not profit media organization whose goal is to bring important news and information to the public.
They provide a secure and anonymous way for sources to leak information to journalists, and has withstood legal and political attacks designed to silence their journalists and anonymous sources.