Apple recently pulled Cal AI, a calorie-tracking app owned by MyFitnessPal, from the App Store for violating in-app purchase guidelines and using misleading billing practices. The app was briefly removed last week after Apple discovered it bypassed required in-app purchase flows while directing users to external payments via Stripe. Though U.S. developers can now link to external payment systems following Apple's legal battle with Epic Games, non-reader apps like Cal AI must still offer an in-app purchase option alongside third-party options. Apple emphasized that Cal AI's removal stemmed from deceptive design choices, not the use of external payments themselves.

The app's billing interface drew criticism for prioritizing weekly calculated pricing over the actual billed amount, obscuring automatic subscription renewals, and presenting multiple subscription options to users who declined the initial offer. This led to widespread user confusion and negative reviews. Apple's enforcement action signals continued scrutiny of apps attempting to circumvent its revenue-sharing model, even as it expands payment flexibility post-Epic Games ruling.

After addressing the issues, Cal AI has reappeared on the App Store and reclaimed its position as the fourth-ranked app in the Health & Fitness category. The incident highlights Apple's balancing act between regulatory compliance and maintaining control over App Store economics. MyFitnessPal and Cal AI have not publicly commented on the matter.

This case underscores the tension between developer autonomy and platform oversight. While Apple now permits external payments for certain apps, it maintains strict requirements for transparency and in-app purchase integration. Developers navigating these rules must prioritize clear billing disclosures to avoid enforcement actions.