App rejection reversed after dev e-mailed Jobs

Apple has approved Knocking Live Video, the first App Store title to enable live video streaming directly from an iPhone using the 3G network. The utility supports device-to-device connectivity between handsets, rather than uploading videos to web-based portals such as YouTube. Users can set up an account before requesting and "Knocking" friends. The video feed is then transmitted to the recipient, regardless of their proximity to the sender.

Knocking supports the iPhone 2G, 3G and 3GS, while iPod touch users can use the app to receive incoming video. Video can be transmitted via Wi-Fi or 3G data connections.

Apple allegedly rejected the developer's initial submission, as the app code integrates private APIs likely flagged by the new screening system, according to Ars Technica. Pointy Head developer Brian Meehan pleaded his case in an e-mail directed to Steve Jobs. An Apple executive, who desires to remain anonymous, contacted Meehan several days later with news that the rejection had been reversed. The decision allegedly came "directly from the top," although Steve Jobs' name was not explicitly mentioned.

"Apple told me they are listening, and truly care about their developers and getting it right," Meehan told Ars. "And I have to say I agree, as they reached back and it was a very positive experience."

Other developers, however, have reported a wide range of frustrating inconsistencies with the App Store review process. Although Apple executives have intervened in a number of cases, the company has been criticized for leaving too much of a gray area and uncertainty in the process. Knocking serves as a perfect example of an app that has been passed through despite blatantly violating the SDK terms.

Knocking is available as a free download from the App Store.

by MacNN Staff