Apple made a wise move by making it a requirement for app vendors to disclose the types of data the app collects from its users and the purpose of the collection. “Privacy Nutrition Label” is an attempt to standardize privacy notices, make it easier to understand than legal terminologies in privacy policy.
Apple took the lead as the moderator, acting on iOS customers’ behalf, to make sure App vendors need to be transparent about:
- how we’re going to use your information
- who we’ll share your information with
It may come as a challenge to many advertising model businesses, because their business model hinges on the collection and harvesting of user data.
On top of this, the Feb 8, 2021 deadline of compulsory acceptance of WhatsApp privacy policy update, further ignites the privacy discussion among many app users.
If we look at the Privacy Nutrition Label of Signal, it’s understandable why this appears as a much safer communication channel. Especially when it is still free.
The lesson for App Developers, however, is that we must not assume our users do not have the technical competency, intellectual appetite, or interest to understand the behind-the-scene use of data. In the world of AI, the role of data is just going to be more important than ever.
Communicate clearly the purpose of your app, the context of use, and helping your customers to understand the difference. Your users would appreciate your respect for them.
