From time to time, Apple updates developers on important changes they should be aware of as it directly relates to their apps. In today’s update, it’s all about health apps.
On Monday, Apple updated its dedicated developer portal to inform developers that there are some changes to HealthKit. The posted notification informs devs that the HealthKit Human Interface Guidelines have been updated to include guidance on using the Apple Health icon in supported apps. There is new editorial guidance on using Apple Health-related terms, and new guidelines dedicated to privacy- and data-usage — something that has been a potential sticking point for Apple as it rolls out new ways to fight back against the spread of COVID-19.
HealthKit allows your app to provide valuable health-related insights to users by working with the Apple Health app. The updated HealthKit Human Interface Guidelines include guidance on using the Apple Health icon in your app, enhanced editorial guidance on using Apple Health-related terms, and clarified privacy and data-usage guidelines.
That’s not all, though. Apple is also making it possible for developers with HealthKit-enabled apps to use the “Works with Apple Health” badge in their apps. This should be a quick and easy way for devs to help differentiate their apps from those that might not support Apple’s HealthKit or the official Health app. Devs can now download the badge and review the new guidelines for using it now.
Works with Apple Health badge now available. You can also now use the Works with Apple Health badge to promote your HealthKit-enabled apps. Download the badge and review the guidelines for using the badge on marketing communications.
Here’s what the badge looks like:
These changes have been implemented as of Monday, April 20, 2020.