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Calling AgeRangeService.shared.isEligibleForAgeFeatures always returns false
When calling the verification interface for "whether the user belongs to a restricted region", the return value is always false; even if the Apple account is registered as an account belonging to a restricted region and the account is set to supervised mode, the interface return result remains unchanged, and it is impossible to verify a true result. The code for calling the interface is as follows: @available(iOS 26.2, *) @objc public func eligibleForAgeFeatures() async -> Bool { var isEligible = false do { isEligible = try await AgeRangeService.shared.isEligibleForAgeFeatures } catch { isEligible = false } return isEligible }
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CXCallUpdate not working for outgoing calls
I try to update remoteHandle using CXCallUpdate for outgoing call, but this works only on iOS 15 but not on 17 or 18 (16 didn't test). This problem actual only for outgoing calls, but for incoming calls update works fine. func startOutgoingCall(with callID: UUID, userID: String) { let handle = CXHandle(type: .generic, value: userID) let action = CXStartCallAction(call: callID, handle: handle) callController.requestTransaction(with: action) { [weak self] error in // ... } } func updateOutgoingCall(with callID: UUID, groupID: String) { let update = CXCallUpdate() update.remoteHandle = CXHandle(type: .generic, value: groupID) provider.reportCall(with: callID, updated: update) } I also tried phoneNumber type but it seems initial handle that I set to CXStartCallAction not possible to change (value or even type). I use this handle value to implement recall by tap on call in Recents tab of system address book. But since my calls can transform from p2p to group call, I need to update handle value or find some another way to pass call identification info.
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Any Brazil developer to test out the `regulatoryfeature` API in prod?
We now know the IsEligibleForAgeFeatures API is NOT returning True in Brazil at least 2 days past compliance date, and we don't know if that's the right API, or how it behaves. Folks here: Is there anyone here from Brazil who has tested out this 26.4 API? Has anyone tested out the regulatory feature API? Does it return something like declaredAgeRangeRequired? I don't know how to test it in Brazil without sandbox/physically in Brazil. Much appreciated!!
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Invalid Entitlement: Unknown ID
I am attempting to configure appclips, but I am getting this error in App Store Connect. I created an app clips target in my project, I have checked the XCAsset files and it is included when archived and pushed to App Store Connect. In both my parent and my app clips target I've added the associated domains capabilities, with the following associated same domains for both targets: appclips:akin-server-side-staging.onrender.com appclips:akin-server-side.onrender.com applinks:akin-server-side-staging.onrender.com applinks:akin-server-side.onrender.com My server is configured to serve the following json at all permutations of the staging endpoints and prod endpoints for both well known and aasa without well known. Here is one of them: https://akin-server-side.onrender.com/.well-known/apple-app-site-association Here is the JSON it is returning: {"applinks":{"details":[{"appIDs":["8PJ28P9ZZ8.com.ElevatedUnderdogs.akin1"],"components":[{"\/":"\/appClips\/referral\/venueToUser\/*"}]}]},"appclips":{"apps":["8PJ28P9ZZ8.com.ElevatedUnderdogs.akin1.Clip"]}} And yet I'm still getting Invalid Entitlement: Unknown ID in the store.
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Why is my Family Controls API requests taking weeks?
Hi everyone, I’m honestly trying to understand what’s going on with the Family Controls API review process. I submitted my entitlement request on March 5, and as of today (March 19), there has been zero response. I also opened a support ticket on March 16, and that hasn’t received any response either. What’s confusing is that updates to another app on the same developer account were approved within days — so clearly the account is in good standing and active. At this point, it feels like there’s no visibility into what’s happening: Is the request under review? Is it waiting for additional information? Or is it just sitting in a queue indefinitely? I understand that Family Controls is a sensitive API, but a two-week silence with no status or communication makes it very difficult to plan or ship features. For those who’ve gone through this: How long did your approval actually take? Did you receive any communication during the process? Is there any reliable way to get visibility or speed this up? Right now, this is blocking a feature we’ve invested significant time building, and the lack of feedback is the most frustrating part. This is really giving me pain. Would really appreciate any insights.
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AASA file on CDN not updated for two weeks
I have a feature that relies on Apple Universal Links, which requires the apple-app-site-association file. I made some changes to this file a week ago, but I noticed that the corresponding file still hasn’t been updated when queried via: https://app-site-association.cdn-apple.com/a/v1/x When I query directly from our server, I can see the latest file here: https://x/.well-known/assetlinks.json Could anyone please help us update the file in the CDN? Thank you.
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DeviceActivityMonitor extension intervalDidStart never called on iOS 26.3.1
Similar Issue to FB13556935: On iOS 26.3.1, deviceactivityd produces zero log output and never wakes a DeviceActivityMonitor extension at the scheduled time, even when the schedule is successfully registered. The extension's intervalDidStart(for:) method is never called. Steps to Reproduce: Create an app with a DeviceActivityMonitor extension subclass Add the com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement to both the main app and extension targets Add a shared App Group entitlement to both targets In the main app, call: let center = DeviceActivityCenter() center.stopMonitoring([.myActivity]) let schedule = DeviceActivitySchedule( intervalStart: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 30), intervalEnd: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 45), repeats: true ) try center.startMonitoring(.myActivity, during: schedule) Verify registration succeeds: DeviceActivityCenter().activities.contains(.myActivity) returns true Background the app completely and wait for the intervalStart time (5:30 PM in this example) Expected Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is called in the extension process at 5:30 PM. ManagedSettings shields are applied without any user interaction. Actual Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is never called. No extension process is launched. Filtering Console.app for deviceactivityd on the device returns 0 messages — the daemon produces no logs whatsoever despite an active registered schedule. Shields are never applied. Additional Evidence: Third-party apps using DeviceActivity (e.g. Prayer Lock) successfully apply shields at scheduled times on the same device and OS version, confirming the framework is not universally broken Filtering Console.app for the app's bundle ID at the trigger time shows the main app process applying shields via a UNCalendarNotificationTrigger fallback — but no extension process activity DeviceActivityCenter().activities correctly lists the registered activity before and after the trigger time, confirming the schedule registration API is functional Environment: iOS 26.3.1 Physical device (required for FamilyControls) Development-signed build with com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement provisioned App Group shared between main app and extension targets
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DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier?
DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier? Application.bundleIdentifier only resolves to a non-nil value inside a DeviceActivityReportExtension (ExtensionKit/XPC). The main app and DeviceActivityMonitor extension always return nil. However, the Report Extension's sandbox silently blocks every output channel I've tested: UserDefaults (App Group): Reads succeed, writes silently dropped File writes (App Group container): Fail silently or throw HTTP requests: Network blocked entirely Local Notifications: "Couldn't communicate with a helper application" UIPasteboard: Writes silently fail iCloud KVS: synchronize() returns false Both targets share the same com.apple.security.application-groups entitlement and group identifier. The main app reads and writes to the shared container normally — only the extension's writes fail. This means resolved bundle identifiers can only be rendered in the extension's own SwiftUI view and cannot be communicated anywhere else. My question: Is this sandbox restriction intentional? If so, what is the recommended mechanism for the host app (or a backend) to obtain the resolved bundle identifiers that only the Report Extension can access? Environment: Xcode 16.3, iOS 18.3, physical device. Sample project: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DPyN2BCUt5p-RKEPA0zsDFFEvgZVHlS_/view?usp=sharing — a minimal two-target project that demonstrates every failing channel. Run on a physical device, grant Screen Time access, select apps, and observe that bundle ID resolution shows PASS but all write channels show FAIL.
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Age declaration not working when using Sandbox account with TestFlight builds
Hello I'm using this sdk DeclaredAgeRange to get the user age range When I'm doing in debug mode using sandbox account it is working as expected and I can get the user age range But when I tried in TestFlight build using sandbox account it is not working and it is always return the age range 18+ and also isEligibleForAgeFeatures API is always returning false Any advise on this?
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Can Screen Time API block an app without blocking its notifications?
Hi, I’m building an iOS app called SocialLite using Apple’s Screen Time APIs, primarily FamilyControls and ManagedSettings. My goal is to block access to the Instagram app itself, while still allowing the user to receive and see Instagram notifications. Right now, when I apply the shield/block using the Screen Time API, the Instagram app is blocked as expected, but its notifications also appear to be blocked/suppressed at the same time. What I’m trying to achieve: Block the Instagram app from being opened Still allow Instagram notifications to come through normally Current behavior: The app is blocked Notifications are also blocked or no longer visible My question: Is there any supported way with Apple’s Screen Time API / ManagedSettings to shield or block an app while still allowing that app’s notifications? Or are app access and notifications tied together by design when a shield is applied? If this behavior is expected, I’d appreciate confirmation from Apple or guidance on whether there is another supported approach. Thanks.
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How to initiate native cellular calls without user confirmation from a companion app (like Meta Ray-Ban glasses)
We are building an AI-powered smart glasses companion app, similar to Meta Ray-Ban. We want to provide true hands-free calling support. Right now, whenever the app tries to dial a native cellular call, iOS shows a confirmation screen that requires the user to tap to start the call. If the user always has to confirm/tap on the phone screen, there is no real point in using smart glasses for making calls. How can we initiate a native outgoing call without any confirmation dialog or extra tap, exactly like Siri does it, or like the Meta Ray-Ban glasses do when the user says “Hey Meta, call [name]” Please guide us on the correct APIs, entitlements, or integration path to achieve this behavior. Thank you.
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iOS 17+: Spotlight only shows app-indexed keywords after 4+ characters — intended behavior or bug?
We’re seeing a change in Spotlight search behavior on iOS 17 and later: Observation: User‑visible keywords we index (e.g. via Core Spotlight / CSSearchableItemAttributeSet with keywords) only start appearing in Spotlight suggestions after the user has typed more than 3 characters. With 1–3 characters, our app’s content often doesn’t show up at all, even when it clearly matches. Before iOS 17: The same indexed content could appear with fewer characters (e.g. 1–3 characters). Environment: Reproduced on multiple devices running iOS 17.x / 18.x; behavior is consistent. We’d like to confirm: Is this a documented change in iOS 17 (e.g. minimum character threshold for third‑party Spotlight results)? If yes, where is it documented? If it’s not intentional, could this be treated as a bug and considered for a fix in a future release? We’re happy to provide a sample project or more detail if that would help. Thank you.
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Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request stuck on "Submitted" for 2+ weeks — no follow-up number received
Hello, I submitted a Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request on February 25, 2026 for my prayer/productivity app that uses the Screen Time API to block distracting apps. I also submitted requests for two extensions on March 6, 2026: com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldAction com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldConfiguration All three requests still show "Submitted" status in the Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles portal with no progress. I contacted Apple Developer Support (Case #102839422791), and they mentioned I should have received a "follow-up number" after submission — but I never received one. This entitlement is the only blocker preventing me from building and distributing my app. Could a DTS engineer please assist or escalate this? Team ID: BH752TBX9L Thank you.
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Family Controls entitlement stuck in “Submitted” for ShieldAction extension
Hi everyone, I'm running into what appears to be a stuck Family Controls entitlement request and wanted to see if anyone has experienced something similar. Request ID: 9D7MU547QH The request is still showing a status of "Submitted". Context: • Our main app bundle ID was already approved for the Family Controls entitlement. • Two related extensions (ShieldConfiguration and DeviceActivityMonitor) were also approved within a few days. • The remaining request is for a ShieldAction extension, which handles button taps from the shield UI. This entitlement is currently blocking our business's beta testing, so we’re trying to understand whether this is just normal queue delay or if the request might be stuck. Has anyone seen a case where the main app and other extensions were approved but a ShieldAction request remained in "Submitted" for an extended period? If an Apple engineer happens to see this, I’d greatly appreciate any guidance on whether the request might be stuck in the review queue. Thank you!
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Effectively distinguish API not available and real error cases
Given that we can't use isEligibleForAgeFeatures property on macOS, the documentation states that In macOS, isEligibleForAgeFeatures returns false because the system doesn’t require Age Assurance for the person or device. However, you can still call requestAgeRange in macOS to get the declared age range. But in unsuitable region the requestAgeRange request always returns DeclaredAgeRange.AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable which is vague, as it might stand for API being unavailable just as well as "You receive this error when the system prompts a person and they decide not to share their age range with your app. ", as per documentation. Unfortunately, this error fires immediately instead of showing any kind of prompt for user, so the description is definitely wrong (or incomplete) in here. Possible solutions: expand Error cases to separate not available API and not available response expand isEligibleForAgeFeatures to properly support macOS Moreover, unlike iOS, there is still no usable tool or algorithm to test given feature for macOS (mock region, mock age, mock source of approval, revoke declared range, etc). Now I get a review with rejection, stating that I don't have age verification mechanisms present in my app. Also I found out that after filling the App Information regarding Age Ratings it spreads to all fresh releases, so even though my newest macOS release doesn't contain age verification mechanisms yet, it should, as iOS release has got this functionality up and running already and I had to check this when filling Age Ratings questionnaire. Now I'm stuck between removing this capability from App Information, so the macOS release can pass and stalling macOS releases until there is a proper usable API to implement Declared Age Range verification properly (at least the same way as on iOS). How should I properly develop and test this feature for macOS before releasing it publicly?
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isEligibleForAgeFeatures: wrong minimum OS version
Dear Apple, while implementing Declared Age Range API in my app, I've noticed a mistake in documentation: the isEligibleForAgeFeatures property is marked 26.0+ in documentation, but 26.2+ in Xcode, which ultimately leads to inability to use it with OS below 26.2. Moreover, I'm thoroughly confused by this quote from documentation: This flag returns true on iOS and iPadOS based on a person’s eligibility and always returns false on macOS. It leads me to two questions: Is it possible to use Declared Age Range API for macOS apps? Will it be possible to use it in future? Will there be any changes regarding this matter in a meantime (especially after Jan 1st)? If yes - when should we expect these changes? If no - why this API declares macOS 26+ support alongside iOS/iPadOS, if it simply doesn't work for macOS now? As of now, my iOS app works flawlessly with given API (on iOS 26.2) while macOS app returns isEligibleForAgeFeatures = false and requestAgeRange request always throws AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable. Also, does it mean that one should not use isEligibleForAgeFeatures boolean while implementing Declared Age Range API for apps below iOS 26.2 (I mean 26.0+)? Or implementing given API for iOS 26.2+ is a sufficient way to go? So shouldn't the whole API be marked as 26.2+? The minimum iOS version in my app is 16.0 and minimum macOS version is 13.0 anyway, so the significant part of users is left out of these updates, but the main goal here is legal compliance.
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Apple CDN Returning HTML Instead of JSON for AASA File – Invalid Character '<' Error (Universal Links)
We are experiencing an issue where Apple’s CDN is not fetching the updated apple-app-site-association (AASA) file correctly for our domain. Domain - app.myloft-stage.com AASA File Locations (Both Return Correct JSON): https://app.myloft-stage.com/.well-known/apple-app-site-association https://app.myloft-stage.com/apple-app-site-association Both endpoints: Return HTTP 200 Return valid JSON Content-Type: application/json No redirects Valid SSL certificate JSON validated and correctly formatted Apple CDN URL - https://app-site-association.cdn-apple.com/a/v1/app.myloft-stage.com Error Returned by Apple CDN - {"cause":"invalid character '\u003c' looking for beginning of value"} This error indicates that Apple CDN is receiving HTML content (starting with <) instead of JSON, even though the origin server returns proper JSON. Observations : Direct access to AASA file returns correct JSON. Apple CDN appears to be caching an older or incorrect response. The CDN response does not match the current server response. Universal Links fail due to this incorrect AASA retrieval.
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DeviceActivityReportExtension: NSExtensionPrincipalClass required by App Store but rejected at runtime
I'm experiencing a contradictory validation issue with DeviceActivityReportExtension that creates an impossible situation: The Problem: Without NSExtensionPrincipalClass in Info.plist → App Store Connect rejects upload with: "Missing Info.plist values. No values for NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass found" With NSExtensionPrincipalClass → Local install fails with: "defines either an NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass key, which is not allowed for the extension point com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension" Setup: Extension point: com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension Using SwiftUI with @main attribute and DeviceActivityReportExtension protocol Xcode 16.2, iOS 17.6 deployment target Code structure: @main struct SpoolReport: DeviceActivityReportExtension { var body: some DeviceActivityReportScene { // Report scenes here } } The extension builds and runs perfectly without NSExtensionPrincipalClass, but cannot be uploaded to App Store Connect. Adding the key allows upload but breaks local installation. Is this a known issue? Is there a workaround or correct Info.plist configuration for DeviceActivityReportExtension? Thank you!
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Are these features possible to make in an iOS app?
Hello, I am wondering if an app that does the following is possible or is impossible due to ios limitations for apps? An app that access all sms messages, and or all phone calls logs? (goal is to save them and not have to filter them manually) An app that control OTHER apps permissions and or read permissions status of all other apps?
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Calling AgeRangeService.shared.isEligibleForAgeFeatures always returns false
When calling the verification interface for "whether the user belongs to a restricted region", the return value is always false; even if the Apple account is registered as an account belonging to a restricted region and the account is set to supervised mode, the interface return result remains unchanged, and it is impossible to verify a true result. The code for calling the interface is as follows: @available(iOS 26.2, *) @objc public func eligibleForAgeFeatures() async -> Bool { var isEligible = false do { isEligible = try await AgeRangeService.shared.isEligibleForAgeFeatures } catch { isEligible = false } return isEligible }
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CXCallUpdate not working for outgoing calls
I try to update remoteHandle using CXCallUpdate for outgoing call, but this works only on iOS 15 but not on 17 or 18 (16 didn't test). This problem actual only for outgoing calls, but for incoming calls update works fine. func startOutgoingCall(with callID: UUID, userID: String) { let handle = CXHandle(type: .generic, value: userID) let action = CXStartCallAction(call: callID, handle: handle) callController.requestTransaction(with: action) { [weak self] error in // ... } } func updateOutgoingCall(with callID: UUID, groupID: String) { let update = CXCallUpdate() update.remoteHandle = CXHandle(type: .generic, value: groupID) provider.reportCall(with: callID, updated: update) } I also tried phoneNumber type but it seems initial handle that I set to CXStartCallAction not possible to change (value or even type). I use this handle value to implement recall by tap on call in Recents tab of system address book. But since my calls can transform from p2p to group call, I need to update handle value or find some another way to pass call identification info.
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Any Brazil developer to test out the `regulatoryfeature` API in prod?
We now know the IsEligibleForAgeFeatures API is NOT returning True in Brazil at least 2 days past compliance date, and we don't know if that's the right API, or how it behaves. Folks here: Is there anyone here from Brazil who has tested out this 26.4 API? Has anyone tested out the regulatory feature API? Does it return something like declaredAgeRangeRequired? I don't know how to test it in Brazil without sandbox/physically in Brazil. Much appreciated!!
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Invalid Entitlement: Unknown ID
I am attempting to configure appclips, but I am getting this error in App Store Connect. I created an app clips target in my project, I have checked the XCAsset files and it is included when archived and pushed to App Store Connect. In both my parent and my app clips target I've added the associated domains capabilities, with the following associated same domains for both targets: appclips:akin-server-side-staging.onrender.com appclips:akin-server-side.onrender.com applinks:akin-server-side-staging.onrender.com applinks:akin-server-side.onrender.com My server is configured to serve the following json at all permutations of the staging endpoints and prod endpoints for both well known and aasa without well known. Here is one of them: https://akin-server-side.onrender.com/.well-known/apple-app-site-association Here is the JSON it is returning: {"applinks":{"details":[{"appIDs":["8PJ28P9ZZ8.com.ElevatedUnderdogs.akin1"],"components":[{"\/":"\/appClips\/referral\/venueToUser\/*"}]}]},"appclips":{"apps":["8PJ28P9ZZ8.com.ElevatedUnderdogs.akin1.Clip"]}} And yet I'm still getting Invalid Entitlement: Unknown ID in the store.
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Why is my Family Controls API requests taking weeks?
Hi everyone, I’m honestly trying to understand what’s going on with the Family Controls API review process. I submitted my entitlement request on March 5, and as of today (March 19), there has been zero response. I also opened a support ticket on March 16, and that hasn’t received any response either. What’s confusing is that updates to another app on the same developer account were approved within days — so clearly the account is in good standing and active. At this point, it feels like there’s no visibility into what’s happening: Is the request under review? Is it waiting for additional information? Or is it just sitting in a queue indefinitely? I understand that Family Controls is a sensitive API, but a two-week silence with no status or communication makes it very difficult to plan or ship features. For those who’ve gone through this: How long did your approval actually take? Did you receive any communication during the process? Is there any reliable way to get visibility or speed this up? Right now, this is blocking a feature we’ve invested significant time building, and the lack of feedback is the most frustrating part. This is really giving me pain. Would really appreciate any insights.
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AASA file on CDN not updated for two weeks
I have a feature that relies on Apple Universal Links, which requires the apple-app-site-association file. I made some changes to this file a week ago, but I noticed that the corresponding file still hasn’t been updated when queried via: https://app-site-association.cdn-apple.com/a/v1/x When I query directly from our server, I can see the latest file here: https://x/.well-known/assetlinks.json Could anyone please help us update the file in the CDN? Thank you.
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DeviceActivityMonitor extension intervalDidStart never called on iOS 26.3.1
Similar Issue to FB13556935: On iOS 26.3.1, deviceactivityd produces zero log output and never wakes a DeviceActivityMonitor extension at the scheduled time, even when the schedule is successfully registered. The extension's intervalDidStart(for:) method is never called. Steps to Reproduce: Create an app with a DeviceActivityMonitor extension subclass Add the com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement to both the main app and extension targets Add a shared App Group entitlement to both targets In the main app, call: let center = DeviceActivityCenter() center.stopMonitoring([.myActivity]) let schedule = DeviceActivitySchedule( intervalStart: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 30), intervalEnd: DateComponents(hour: 17, minute: 45), repeats: true ) try center.startMonitoring(.myActivity, during: schedule) Verify registration succeeds: DeviceActivityCenter().activities.contains(.myActivity) returns true Background the app completely and wait for the intervalStart time (5:30 PM in this example) Expected Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is called in the extension process at 5:30 PM. ManagedSettings shields are applied without any user interaction. Actual Result: intervalDidStart(for:) is never called. No extension process is launched. Filtering Console.app for deviceactivityd on the device returns 0 messages — the daemon produces no logs whatsoever despite an active registered schedule. Shields are never applied. Additional Evidence: Third-party apps using DeviceActivity (e.g. Prayer Lock) successfully apply shields at scheduled times on the same device and OS version, confirming the framework is not universally broken Filtering Console.app for the app's bundle ID at the trigger time shows the main app process applying shields via a UNCalendarNotificationTrigger fallback — but no extension process activity DeviceActivityCenter().activities correctly lists the registered activity before and after the trigger time, confirming the schedule registration API is functional Environment: iOS 26.3.1 Physical device (required for FamilyControls) Development-signed build with com.apple.developer.family-controls entitlement provisioned App Group shared between main app and extension targets
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Nearby Interaction property supportsDirectionMeasurement returns false and NINearbyObject direction property is nil
I am trying on iOS 16.1.1 the Nearby Interaction framework. I am testing it on two iPhones 14 Pro Max. The supportsDirectionMeasurement property returns false (!) and the direction property on the NINearbyObjects is nil. Has someone experienced the same issue?
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DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier?
DeviceActivityReportExtension sandbox blocks all output channels — how to export resolved Application.bundleIdentifier? Application.bundleIdentifier only resolves to a non-nil value inside a DeviceActivityReportExtension (ExtensionKit/XPC). The main app and DeviceActivityMonitor extension always return nil. However, the Report Extension's sandbox silently blocks every output channel I've tested: UserDefaults (App Group): Reads succeed, writes silently dropped File writes (App Group container): Fail silently or throw HTTP requests: Network blocked entirely Local Notifications: "Couldn't communicate with a helper application" UIPasteboard: Writes silently fail iCloud KVS: synchronize() returns false Both targets share the same com.apple.security.application-groups entitlement and group identifier. The main app reads and writes to the shared container normally — only the extension's writes fail. This means resolved bundle identifiers can only be rendered in the extension's own SwiftUI view and cannot be communicated anywhere else. My question: Is this sandbox restriction intentional? If so, what is the recommended mechanism for the host app (or a backend) to obtain the resolved bundle identifiers that only the Report Extension can access? Environment: Xcode 16.3, iOS 18.3, physical device. Sample project: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DPyN2BCUt5p-RKEPA0zsDFFEvgZVHlS_/view?usp=sharing — a minimal two-target project that demonstrates every failing channel. Run on a physical device, grant Screen Time access, select apps, and observe that bundle ID resolution shows PASS but all write channels show FAIL.
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Age declaration not working when using Sandbox account with TestFlight builds
Hello I'm using this sdk DeclaredAgeRange to get the user age range When I'm doing in debug mode using sandbox account it is working as expected and I can get the user age range But when I tried in TestFlight build using sandbox account it is not working and it is always return the age range 18+ and also isEligibleForAgeFeatures API is always returning false Any advise on this?
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Can Screen Time API block an app without blocking its notifications?
Hi, I’m building an iOS app called SocialLite using Apple’s Screen Time APIs, primarily FamilyControls and ManagedSettings. My goal is to block access to the Instagram app itself, while still allowing the user to receive and see Instagram notifications. Right now, when I apply the shield/block using the Screen Time API, the Instagram app is blocked as expected, but its notifications also appear to be blocked/suppressed at the same time. What I’m trying to achieve: Block the Instagram app from being opened Still allow Instagram notifications to come through normally Current behavior: The app is blocked Notifications are also blocked or no longer visible My question: Is there any supported way with Apple’s Screen Time API / ManagedSettings to shield or block an app while still allowing that app’s notifications? Or are app access and notifications tied together by design when a shield is applied? If this behavior is expected, I’d appreciate confirmation from Apple or guidance on whether there is another supported approach. Thanks.
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How to initiate native cellular calls without user confirmation from a companion app (like Meta Ray-Ban glasses)
We are building an AI-powered smart glasses companion app, similar to Meta Ray-Ban. We want to provide true hands-free calling support. Right now, whenever the app tries to dial a native cellular call, iOS shows a confirmation screen that requires the user to tap to start the call. If the user always has to confirm/tap on the phone screen, there is no real point in using smart glasses for making calls. How can we initiate a native outgoing call without any confirmation dialog or extra tap, exactly like Siri does it, or like the Meta Ray-Ban glasses do when the user says “Hey Meta, call [name]” Please guide us on the correct APIs, entitlements, or integration path to achieve this behavior. Thank you.
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iOS 17+: Spotlight only shows app-indexed keywords after 4+ characters — intended behavior or bug?
We’re seeing a change in Spotlight search behavior on iOS 17 and later: Observation: User‑visible keywords we index (e.g. via Core Spotlight / CSSearchableItemAttributeSet with keywords) only start appearing in Spotlight suggestions after the user has typed more than 3 characters. With 1–3 characters, our app’s content often doesn’t show up at all, even when it clearly matches. Before iOS 17: The same indexed content could appear with fewer characters (e.g. 1–3 characters). Environment: Reproduced on multiple devices running iOS 17.x / 18.x; behavior is consistent. We’d like to confirm: Is this a documented change in iOS 17 (e.g. minimum character threshold for third‑party Spotlight results)? If yes, where is it documented? If it’s not intentional, could this be treated as a bug and considered for a fix in a future release? We’re happy to provide a sample project or more detail if that would help. Thank you.
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Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request stuck on "Submitted" for 2+ weeks — no follow-up number received
Hello, I submitted a Family Controls (Distribution) entitlement request on February 25, 2026 for my prayer/productivity app that uses the Screen Time API to block distracting apps. I also submitted requests for two extensions on March 6, 2026: com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldAction com.prayfirst.prayFirst.ShieldConfiguration All three requests still show "Submitted" status in the Certificates, Identifiers & Profiles portal with no progress. I contacted Apple Developer Support (Case #102839422791), and they mentioned I should have received a "follow-up number" after submission — but I never received one. This entitlement is the only blocker preventing me from building and distributing my app. Could a DTS engineer please assist or escalate this? Team ID: BH752TBX9L Thank you.
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Family Controls entitlement stuck in “Submitted” for ShieldAction extension
Hi everyone, I'm running into what appears to be a stuck Family Controls entitlement request and wanted to see if anyone has experienced something similar. Request ID: 9D7MU547QH The request is still showing a status of "Submitted". Context: • Our main app bundle ID was already approved for the Family Controls entitlement. • Two related extensions (ShieldConfiguration and DeviceActivityMonitor) were also approved within a few days. • The remaining request is for a ShieldAction extension, which handles button taps from the shield UI. This entitlement is currently blocking our business's beta testing, so we’re trying to understand whether this is just normal queue delay or if the request might be stuck. Has anyone seen a case where the main app and other extensions were approved but a ShieldAction request remained in "Submitted" for an extended period? If an Apple engineer happens to see this, I’d greatly appreciate any guidance on whether the request might be stuck in the review queue. Thank you!
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75
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Effectively distinguish API not available and real error cases
Given that we can't use isEligibleForAgeFeatures property on macOS, the documentation states that In macOS, isEligibleForAgeFeatures returns false because the system doesn’t require Age Assurance for the person or device. However, you can still call requestAgeRange in macOS to get the declared age range. But in unsuitable region the requestAgeRange request always returns DeclaredAgeRange.AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable which is vague, as it might stand for API being unavailable just as well as "You receive this error when the system prompts a person and they decide not to share their age range with your app. ", as per documentation. Unfortunately, this error fires immediately instead of showing any kind of prompt for user, so the description is definitely wrong (or incomplete) in here. Possible solutions: expand Error cases to separate not available API and not available response expand isEligibleForAgeFeatures to properly support macOS Moreover, unlike iOS, there is still no usable tool or algorithm to test given feature for macOS (mock region, mock age, mock source of approval, revoke declared range, etc). Now I get a review with rejection, stating that I don't have age verification mechanisms present in my app. Also I found out that after filling the App Information regarding Age Ratings it spreads to all fresh releases, so even though my newest macOS release doesn't contain age verification mechanisms yet, it should, as iOS release has got this functionality up and running already and I had to check this when filling Age Ratings questionnaire. Now I'm stuck between removing this capability from App Information, so the macOS release can pass and stalling macOS releases until there is a proper usable API to implement Declared Age Range verification properly (at least the same way as on iOS). How should I properly develop and test this feature for macOS before releasing it publicly?
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isEligibleForAgeFeatures: wrong minimum OS version
Dear Apple, while implementing Declared Age Range API in my app, I've noticed a mistake in documentation: the isEligibleForAgeFeatures property is marked 26.0+ in documentation, but 26.2+ in Xcode, which ultimately leads to inability to use it with OS below 26.2. Moreover, I'm thoroughly confused by this quote from documentation: This flag returns true on iOS and iPadOS based on a person’s eligibility and always returns false on macOS. It leads me to two questions: Is it possible to use Declared Age Range API for macOS apps? Will it be possible to use it in future? Will there be any changes regarding this matter in a meantime (especially after Jan 1st)? If yes - when should we expect these changes? If no - why this API declares macOS 26+ support alongside iOS/iPadOS, if it simply doesn't work for macOS now? As of now, my iOS app works flawlessly with given API (on iOS 26.2) while macOS app returns isEligibleForAgeFeatures = false and requestAgeRange request always throws AgeRangeService.Error.notAvailable. Also, does it mean that one should not use isEligibleForAgeFeatures boolean while implementing Declared Age Range API for apps below iOS 26.2 (I mean 26.0+)? Or implementing given API for iOS 26.2+ is a sufficient way to go? So shouldn't the whole API be marked as 26.2+? The minimum iOS version in my app is 16.0 and minimum macOS version is 13.0 anyway, so the significant part of users is left out of these updates, but the main goal here is legal compliance.
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Apple CDN Returning HTML Instead of JSON for AASA File – Invalid Character '<' Error (Universal Links)
We are experiencing an issue where Apple’s CDN is not fetching the updated apple-app-site-association (AASA) file correctly for our domain. Domain - app.myloft-stage.com AASA File Locations (Both Return Correct JSON): https://app.myloft-stage.com/.well-known/apple-app-site-association https://app.myloft-stage.com/apple-app-site-association Both endpoints: Return HTTP 200 Return valid JSON Content-Type: application/json No redirects Valid SSL certificate JSON validated and correctly formatted Apple CDN URL - https://app-site-association.cdn-apple.com/a/v1/app.myloft-stage.com Error Returned by Apple CDN - {"cause":"invalid character '\u003c' looking for beginning of value"} This error indicates that Apple CDN is receiving HTML content (starting with <) instead of JSON, even though the origin server returns proper JSON. Observations : Direct access to AASA file returns correct JSON. Apple CDN appears to be caching an older or incorrect response. The CDN response does not match the current server response. Universal Links fail due to this incorrect AASA retrieval.
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DeviceActivityReportExtension: NSExtensionPrincipalClass required by App Store but rejected at runtime
I'm experiencing a contradictory validation issue with DeviceActivityReportExtension that creates an impossible situation: The Problem: Without NSExtensionPrincipalClass in Info.plist → App Store Connect rejects upload with: "Missing Info.plist values. No values for NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass found" With NSExtensionPrincipalClass → Local install fails with: "defines either an NSExtensionMainStoryboard or NSExtensionPrincipalClass key, which is not allowed for the extension point com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension" Setup: Extension point: com.apple.deviceactivityui.report-extension Using SwiftUI with @main attribute and DeviceActivityReportExtension protocol Xcode 16.2, iOS 17.6 deployment target Code structure: @main struct SpoolReport: DeviceActivityReportExtension { var body: some DeviceActivityReportScene { // Report scenes here } } The extension builds and runs perfectly without NSExtensionPrincipalClass, but cannot be uploaded to App Store Connect. Adding the key allows upload but breaks local installation. Is this a known issue? Is there a workaround or correct Info.plist configuration for DeviceActivityReportExtension? Thank you!
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Are these features possible to make in an iOS app?
Hello, I am wondering if an app that does the following is possible or is impossible due to ios limitations for apps? An app that access all sms messages, and or all phone calls logs? (goal is to save them and not have to filter them manually) An app that control OTHER apps permissions and or read permissions status of all other apps?
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