Apple will allow unlisted apps to appear in its App Store if developers request it.
These applications will be accessible via a URL, explains Apple in a support note relayed by MacRumors. Which means anyone who has the URL can go to the App Store to install the app. Apple therefore recommends that developers ensure that their code prevents unauthorized use.
Apps not listed on the App Store
“Unlisted apps do not appear in category listings, recommendations, ratings, search results, or other App Store listings. They are, however, accessible via Apple Business Manager and Apple School Manager,” the note states.
“Apps targeted to specific organizations, special events, or research studies, or those used as employee resources or sales tools are good candidates for unlisted distribution. »
For developers whose apps are already on the App Store, once the form is completed and approval is obtained, the app will switch to unlisted mode with the same URL. Those using Business Manager or School Manager will need to register their app again.
Once an app is no longer listed, its future versions will remain that way.
Apple specifies that “unlisted applications” must be available in “”final version”, because “requests for applications in beta or preview version will be refused”.
Source: ZDNet.com