JS Interpreter in iOS.

TODO: collapasable, copyable, download, etc

Can you embed a JS interpreter in your iOS app and comply with all Apple policies?Yes, you can embed a JavaScript (JS) interpreter in your iOS app and comply with all Apple policies, but there are specific guidelines and restrictions you must follow according to Apple's App Store Review Guidelines. As of my last update in April 2023, here's a summary of what you need to keep in mind:

1. Use of Web Technologies

Apple allows the use of web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript within apps, especially through the use of WKWebView for displaying web content. Embedding a JS interpreter for the purpose of running web content or providing interactive features is generally acceptable.

2. Executing Code

Apple's guidelines, particularly section 2.5.2, have restrictions on downloading, installing, or executing code which is not already part of the app's binary, for security reasons. However, running JavaScript within a WKWebView or similar component is a common exception to this rule, as it's considered part of the web content being displayed.

3. App Functionality

Your app should not rely entirely on web-based technologies or act merely as a web app wrapped in a native app shell. Apple prefers that apps available in the App Store offer a rich, native user experience. This doesn't preclude the use of web views or JavaScript for certain functionalities or content within the app.

4. Dynamic Content and Code

While you can use JavaScript within your app for dynamic content or functionalities, any significant changes to the app's behavior or features through dynamically downloaded scripts not embedded in the original app submission might be scrutinized under guideline 4.7, which deals with HTML5 games, apps, or APIs. Essentially, if your app downloads and executes code in a way that changes the app's core functionality or purpose after review, it could be rejected or removed from the App Store.

5. Review Process

Ensure that all functionalities, including those implemented with JavaScript, are fully disclosed and demonstrated during the app review process. Apple's review process is designed to catch any use of private APIs, significant app changes post-review, or other violations of their guidelines.

Conclusion

Embedding a JS interpreter in your iOS app is generally compliant with Apple policies, provided you adhere to the guidelines regarding executing code, app functionality, and the review process. Always refer to the latest version of the App Store Review Guidelines and consider reaching out to Apple Developer Support if you have specific questions about your app's compliance.Processing.js is an amazing platform for coding arists. Could you build that and pass the app store review?Yes, you can build an app using Processing.js or a similar JavaScript library aimed at coding artists and successfully pass the App Store review, provided you adhere to Apple's App Store Review Guidelines. Processing.js is a popular library that makes it possible to write visualizations, interactive applications, or other graphical works in a JavaScript environment, which can then be embedded in a web view within an iOS app.

Here are some key points to consider when integrating Processing.js into your iOS app to ensure compliance with Apple's policies:

1. Embedding within WKWebView

You can embed Processing.js in a WKWebView in your iOS app. This approach is commonly used for displaying interactive or dynamic content that relies on web technologies. Ensure that the content displayed is fully functional and does not lead to a degraded user experience.

2. App Functionality and Design

Your app should offer a rich, native user experience and not merely act as a wrapper around what could be a web page. This means integrating iOS interface elements, providing offline capabilities where appropriate, and ensuring that the app feels cohesive and not just like a website packaged as an app.

3. Content Loading and Execution

According to Apple's guidelines, specifically section 2.5.2 (as of my last update in April 2023), executing code that changes the app's behavior or features after review is not allowed. However, using Processing.js for visualizations, animations, or interactive content that is part of the app's initial submission is generally acceptable. Ensure that any dynamic content or scripts loaded through your app do not significantly alter its primary purpose or functionality in ways that were not disclosed during the review process.

4. User-Generated Content

If your app allows users to create or modify content using Processing.js, ensure you have mechanisms in place to moderate or filter content to prevent the display or sharing of objectionable material. This is especially important if your app includes social features or the ability to share content with others.

5. Performance and Resource Usage

Ensure that your use of Processing.js and WKWebView does not lead to excessive battery drain, overheating, or other performance issues. Apple may reject apps that provide a poor user experience due to resource inefficiency.

6. Review Process

During the review process, be transparent about the functionalities and features of your app. Provide a detailed description and demo videos if necessary, to showcase how Processing.js is used within your app. This can help the review team understand the purpose and functionality of your app, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or rejections.

Conclusion

Building an app with Processing.js for coding artists can be a creative and rewarding project that passes the App Store review, provided you follow Apple's guidelines. Focus on creating a rich, native app experience that leverages Processing.js for enhancing the app's features and functionalities while adhering to performance, content, and execution policies set by Apple.

JS Interpreter in iOS. created at Tue Jan 20 1970 18:53:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)