Apple has sent an email to mobile development firms warning that it will begin some fall housecleaning next week. The company is going to evaluate apps in the App Store to make sure that they are still being maintained and meet the current guidelines. In addition, Apple says that from now on, all app names must be 50 characters long or less. Developers whose apps don't meet either of these criteria will have 30 days to make any necessary changes, or else Apple will kick the offending apps out of the App Store. However, end users will still have access to apps already installed on their devices, even if they are removed from the App Store.
The app cleanup is scheduled to begin Sept. 7, the same day Apple plans to make an announcement, which many assume will be related to the next iteration of the iPhone.