> It is my understanding that apps can no longer publish automatically at all

You are misreading what they are specifically saying. First, we are talking about custom actions. Built in actions that FB provides are still allowed to be auto-published.

Secondly, the restriction is merely on consuming content. You can debate what that means, but performing specific actions can still be auto-shared. However, simply consuming content, using custom actions, will not be permitted.

So, listening to music can still be reported as you listen to music (this is a built in action), but viewing a picture won't fly.