Apple removes HMV app from the iOS App Store
Entertainment retailer HMV has confirmed that Apple has temporarily removed the HMV app from the iOS App Store despite the tech giant previously giving the app its approval.
HMV said the app had been popular with customers and had been downloaded over 10,000 times since its launch on 17 October. In addition, it had been given a four star review by iOS users and a 4.5 rating by Android users on the Google Play app store.
Paul McGowan, HMV chairman and chief executive of HMV’s owner Hilco Capital, said: “It is disappointing that Apple has chosen to suspend an app that has proven to be very successful in only a few short days despite Apple having already approved the exact same version on 15 September. We are unable to explain the change in Apple’s position as we have been given no explanation by them as to any difference they view between the approved version and the one suspended this evening.”
“The Android and HTML versions of the app are spectacular and are proving a big hit with UK consumers with downloads growing constantly over the last few days. They will also be launched in Ireland on 24 October and we have pencilled in a Canadian launch during November.”
HMV stressed that Apple’s removal of the app only prevented further iPhone users from downloading the app and those who had already downloaded it would continue to be able to use it as before.
The retailer’s developers are working around the clock to deliver an updated version of the iOS app for Apple’s approval which will retain the innovative Image Search and Sound Search functionality to discover music and listen to 30 second previews.
HMV said the high singles sales were significant as HMV had, in recent years, missed out on the singles market, and mark HMV’s return to being highly influential on the Official Singles Chart.
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