If I were Apple, I would say “oops a couple security-sensitive APIs slipped through that we forgot to open up for requests for access,” and quickly publish an expanded list of all of the entitlements they’re currently saving for their close friends. This is different, and more toxic, than all of the in—app purchase stuff — you’re telling indie developers that no matter how hard they try, they won’t be able to match the functionality of Apple’s special friends.

Otherwise, well, there goes your narrative of having a level playing field. The problem with this is, the loss of trust results in a slow, unending decay that only becomes obvious in retrospect.

It may not seem like it, but billions of dollars of value are at stake with little things like this. If you work at Apple, you should raise the alarm.