Content Policy

Last updated: March 5, 2026

This policy explains what kinds of apps can be listed and distributed through the American App Hub.

All apps and developers are required to follow these rules. Apps that do not follow the policy may be rejected, removed, or restricted. Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis. Also, additional requirements may be imposed on individual apps for any reason deemed necessary.

In the spirit of freedom, app distribution stores will usually be allowed if they are clearly labeled as such. App distribution store submissions will be considered on a case-by-case basis. App distribution stores are exempt from this Content Policy, but they may be subject to additional requirements. Partial exemptions may also be granted to social media apps, web browsers, and artificial intelligence apps containing clear content policies.

1. Store Listing

The store listing includes everything shown to users before installing an app, such as:

• app name
• app descriptions
• app icon
• screenshots
• privacy information
• developer information

Store listings must not contain any content that is prohibited under the "app content" section. Store listings must not contain content that is not appropriate for users of all ages.

Accuracy

Store listings must accurately describe the app and include all legally relevant information.

The following are not allowed:

• Misleading or incomplete descriptions
• Fake screenshots
• Claims about features that do not exist
• Impersonation of another developer or brand
• Incorrect contact information

Intellectual Property

Developers must have permission to use all content in the listing.

Content that violates copyright or trademark rights is not allowed.

Spam and Low-Quality Listings

Listings may be rejected if they are primarily created to manipulate rankings or generate advertising traffic.

Examples include:

• duplicate apps with minor changes
• apps with little or no functionality
• listings created in large numbers by the same developer

2. App Content

The app content includes all text, images, audio, and other material shown inside the app.

Illegal Content

Content that violates United States law is not allowed.

Examples include:

• illegal goods or services
• fraud or scams
• stolen content

Harmful Content

Content that promotes harm to others is not allowed.

Examples include:

• threats of violence
• realistic depictions of violence
• harassment or bullying
• content that encourages self-harm

Educational or documentary content may be allowed when harm is not promoted.

Group Intolerance

Content that promotes intolerance or violence toward protected groups of people is not allowed.

Protected characteristics include:

• religion
• military or law enforcement affiliation
• disability
• race
• ethnicity

Discussion of controversial topics is allowed if it is presented in a respectful way.

Sexual Content

Explicit sexual content is not allowed.

There are no exceptions to this policy.

Child Safety

Illegal depiction and exploitation of minors is strictly prohibited. Apps may be removed immediately if such material is discovered.

Developers are encouraged to use the provided age categories API when legally required to verify users' ages. Developers must not use the age categories API for purposes other than legal compliance or age-related content gating.

3. App Functionality

The app functionality covers how the app behaves and what it does on the user's device.

Security and Malware

Apps must not harm user's devices or data.

The following are not allowed:

• malware
• spyware
• hidden tracking
• unauthorized system access
• attempts to exploit device vulnerabilities

Privacy and Data Collection

Apps must respect user privacy.

Developers must:

• collect only necessary data
• transparently disclose what data is collected
• explain how the data is used
• include an in-app privacy policy if any data is collected or shared in any way

Unauthorized data collection or hidden surveillance is not allowed.

Deceptive Behavior

Apps must not mislead users.

Examples of prohibited behavior include:

• fake system alerts
• misleading UI designed to trick users
• hidden subscriptions or undisclosed charges

Advertising

Ads are allowed but must follow these rules:

• ads must be clearly distinguishable from app content
• ads must not interfere with basic app functionality
• ads must not promote illegal or harmful content

Ad content must meet the same requirements as other app content under this policy.

User-Generated Content

Apps that allow users to post content must provide moderation tools.

Developers are expected to provide:

• a reporting system
• a process to respond to complaints
• a way to remove abusive content

Within reasonable technological limitations, user-generated content must meet the same requirements as other app content under this policy.

Enforcement

Apps that violate this policy may be:

• rejected before publication
• removed from the app hub
• restricted or suspended

Developer accounts may also be suspended for repeated violations.