Apple says the App Store won't close for developers over the holidays

Apple says it won't be closing down the App Store to developer submissions over the holidays as it had in the previous years.

For years Apple has closed its App Store to submissions from developers over the holidays. During the days in and around Thanksgiving and Christmas, Apple closed its App Store Connect service altogether. The developers will gladly welcome the policy change as they often fear that Apple will block them from issuing emergency bug fixes or critical updates during one of the busiest seasons for apps.

As customers unwrap new iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices given as gifts during the holidays, they look for new apps to download and re-download their favorite apps. The extended downtime from work also makes the customers search for new apps and games to try during the final months of the year.

Apple announced that it would continue to operate through the holidays this year but hints at reducing staffing levels by noting that reviews 'may take longer to complete' from November 24-28 and December 23-27.

The changes arrive when Apple is under increased regulatory scrutiny worldwide over its App Store business model, which requires developers to pay Apple a commission on their paid app downloads, subscriptions, and in-app purchases. Apple might not want to invite further scrutiny from lawmakers and critics by closing down its App Store submission platform, which is powered by developer fees. Apple argued in court that it collects fees to serve its developer community.