iOS app: Metadata rejected

Question

So I just uploaded my first app to the Apple Store and there was one issue: Metadata Reject: Design Copycat

Please make the necessary changes to your app so that it does not infringe upon the rights of a third party:

• Remove all third-party marks from your app icon, screenshots, and previews.

1. I was wondering.. Am I not allowed to use any images from the web in my preview? My app is loading news items from an API. Each item has an image (not taken by me), which is shown on the main page.
2. Also, if it's just metadata.. Does this mean I only have to change my app icon that will be visible in the store or also the real app icon you'll see on your phone?
3. If they're having an issue with the images in my screenshots.. Will they also have an issue with the actual app showing those images?

Answer 1

This issue refers specifically about options 2 and 3 from your question. You can discard #1 for sure.

Without seeing your app icon, previews and screenshots it's hard to tell what's wrong with them but it's definitely something that's already somewhere else. It could be another app with the same icon set or very similar previews. Do not discard the possibility that it could also be part of your app icon or previews, are you including logos or slogans from 3rd party companies?

If your app previews have this images that the API is pulling from different sources you may want to tweak them to show some other images, just for the previews and screenshots not the actual app.

For #2 the recommendation will be to have the same icon in the app than in the store. Mostly because users can identify quickly.

Answer 2

Do you have a screenshot of your app that contains potentially infringing data? If so, you may want to replace that screenshot & respond once you do that.

For your third point, you should be fine so long as you disclose that your app consumes third party content.