Apple is reportedly planning to ban the sale of protective screen film in both its retail and online stores.
According to iLounge, the policy will affect both cases and individual film packages beginning in May.
“Apple has said that it will remove both film-only solutions from its stores, as well as any case or other accessory that includes film protection as part of its package, such as cases that include film screen protectors,” wrote Charles Starrett of iLounge.
“The ban will impact all forms of screen film, including completely clear film, anti-glare film, and mirrored film, regardless of whether the purpose of the film is protective, decorative, or both. It will also prevent sales of film for iPods, iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers.”
Starrett also speculated that the ban may be little more than a marketing ploy invented by Club Cupertino to emphasize screen durability.
“[However], scratches have damaged both plastic and glass displays of its products for years.”
He added that the move will have significant “ramifications” for the accessory industry, as the Apple Store “constitutes a significant fraction of total sales for many developers.”
