VPN on App Store: Will Apple Delete Incompatible Applications?
Sophia
2026-08-17
Read time
2 minutes
Recently, rumors have actively spread online that Apple plans to remove applications from its App Store if they fail to function when a VPN is enabled. This has caused particular concern among users in Russia, where the availability of such services is constantly changing. However, a detailed analysis of the platform rules reveals a completely different picture.
What Apple Official Rules Actually Say
The App Store Review Guidelines do not contain any requirements regarding mandatory compatibility of programs with VPN services. Developers must provide support for the IPv6 protocol, but nothing is mentioned about virtual private networks. If a program works over a standard internet connection but fails with a specific VPN, this is not considered a violation by the app creators.
Often, issues arise due to the settings of the VPN itself, such as blocking certain IP addresses, filtering DNS requests, or incorrect traffic routing. Because of these technical nuances, many popular services may temporarily malfunction, which has nothing to do with Apple's moderation policy.
Real Reasons for Removing Programs from the Store
Although there is no direct ban on VPN incompatibility, Apple can block a product for other reasons. For instance, if an application constantly crashes or fails to perform its declared functions. The company regularly re-checks already published software, so passing the initial moderation does not guarantee permanent presence in the catalog.
Furthermore, the rules prohibit forcing users to disable built-in system security features without a valid reason. Since virtual networks are often used to protect privacy, developers' demands to turn them off might attract unwanted attention from platform moderators. Additionally, the application description in the store must strictly match its actual features.
How the Performance of Services Has Changed in Practice
Practical tests show positive dynamics. While previously many Russian marketplaces and delivery services refused to launch with an active VPN, now most of them work without restrictions. Major trading platforms open equally stably under any connection type.
Some government services and mobile operator applications now limit themselves to warning notifications about potential instability. The programs themselves do not block user access. Developers are adapting their products and moving away from hard restrictions to retain their audience amid tightening blocks from regulators.
Should Mass Blockings Be Expected
There is no reason to panic, as mass removal of software due to VPN incompatibility is not planned. For the iOS operating system, virtual private networks are a standard and legal security tool. At the same time, experts and representatives of government agencies, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs, warn of the dangers of using free services that can compromise personal data.
With the reliable HiroVPN service, you will always be protected from any access difficulties, blocks, and data leakage risks.
