After the WWDC 2025 keynote, Apple got all musical by turning positive App Store reviews into a catchy song titled “6 out of 5 stars,” performed by Allen Stone. The lyrics praised the apps as pieces of art, but Apple conveniently left out the struggles developers have faced with the company in recent years.
AI Advances and Setbacks
At the event, Apple talked up AI features that Google already had, like translation and visual search. They even demoed a Visual Intelligence feature using Google’s image search app, which seemed more at home on Android devices with their innovative search tools.
Tech Heavyweights at Disrupt 2025
Apple tried to meet developers’ AI demands by integrating OpenAI technology, such as ChatGPT in Image Playground and coding support in Xcode. Despite rumors of partnerships with Google Gemini and Anthropic, no official deals were announced.
Deafening Silence on App Store Commissions
Apple didn’t address the controversy around App Store commissions, despite recent legal battles with Epic Games. The keynote focused on consumer benefits like the new Games app, leaving developers wondering about improvements to their payment systems and protections against scams.
In the latest developer beta of iOS 26, Apple is making it clear that it’s all about the money. The App Store now defaults to the Search page, nudging developers to shell out more for those coveted Search ads. It’s like Apple saying, “Show me the money!”
Apple seems to view developers as a cash cow, focusing on dazzling consumers with new features like Liquid Glass interface design. But why should developers bother revamping their perfectly fine apps to fit this new style? Apple could have dropped a hint that maybe, just maybe, Liquid Glass hints at future AR glasses compatibility. But nope, it’s all hush-hush at Apple HQ.
And let’s not forget the awkward attempt at ending the event on a high note with cheery App Store reviews. With bots and fake reviews running amok, it felt more like a forced “thank you” to developers. Apple may claim to love its developers, but actions speak louder than words – and this year, it’s all about the Benjamins.
