Apple's upcoming HealthKit app allows users to track metrics like steps taken and calories burned, but won't allow developers to sell that info to marketers.
According to a report by The Financial Times, Cupertino wants to make sure its customers' health data does not become fodder for targeted ads. An updated iOS licensing agreement states that developers cannot "sell an end-user's health information collected through the HealthKit API to advertising platforms, data brokers or information resellers," the FT said.
As The Guardian reported, developers can share data with third parties "for medical research purposes," but only if they get a user's permission.
Developers who sign on for HealthKit must agree to these rules and include a privacy policy within their app. Those who run afoul of these rules could be kicked out of the App Store or face legal troubles, the FT said.
Apple did not immediately respond to PCMag's request for comment.
HealthKit and the standalone Health app are just two of the features coming to Apple's next-gen iOS 8 mobile OS: other additions include Shazam integration, HomeKit, iMessage updates, Family Sharing, and interactive notifications. Apple will likely announce a firm launch date for iOS 8 at its Sept. 9 iPhone event, where it is also expected to reveal two new iPhones and possibly the long-rumored iWatch.