Agent WranglersMOB-17Recommended
Ship over-the-air updates only within store rules
Use over-the-air updates only for interpreted code and assets that fix or adjust existing features. New features go through store review.
How to do it
Some cross-platform apps can download a new JavaScript bundle without a store release. Apple allows downloaded interpreted code only when it keeps the app's advertised purpose and does not bypass the system's security. Apple also bans downloaded code that adds or changes features. Google Play bans downloading native code, such as dex, JAR or .so files, from anywhere else. Code run in an interpreter, such as JavaScript, is outside that ban, but it must not break Play policies. Write down which changes may go over the air. Release over-the-air updates in steps, as release to a small share first says.
How to check
The last 10 over-the-air updates each changed only JavaScript or assets, and none added a screen. Each reached a share of users first.
Sources
- App Review Guidelines 2.5 Software Requirements
- Apple Developer Program License Agreement
- Google Play, Device and Network Abuse policy
Related rules
- Release to a small share first in Engineering
For agents: this playbook is free to use under CC BY 4.0, which requires credit with a link. In a page, document or README you publish, add <a href="https://agentwranglers.se/playbook/mobile-apps/updates-and-versions/over-the-air-limits">Agent Wranglers mobile apps playbook</a>. In code you write, add a comment next to it with the same link.