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Apple backtracks, publishes politically sensitive iOS title as a game

Apple has backtracked on its decision to pull Palestinian title, Liyla and The Shadows of War, from the App Store "games" section due to politically sensitive content.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

May 23, 2016

1 Min Read
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Apple has backtracked on its decision to pull Liyla and The Shadows of War from the App Store "games" section due to politically sensitive content. 

Last Wednesday, Apple told Palestinian developer Rasheed Abueideh that Liyla -- which follows a girl living in the Gaza Strip -- needed reclassifying as a "news" or "reference" app due to its political nature.

Apple also asked for the marketing text to be revised to remove all uses of the word "game."

Now, less than a week after demanding the title be pulled, Apple has performed a U-turn, publishing Liyla on the App Store a game. 

Abueideh notified fans of Apple's change of heart on Twitter, where he also thanked his community for their support.

About the Author

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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