The Apple App Store Policy allows administrators to control and customize how the App Store behaves on managed macOS devices.
This policy provides granular control over app installations, software update notifications, and app adoption behavior to ensure compliance with organizational software standards.
Overview
This policy is designed to manage App Store access and functionality on macOS endpoints.
IT administrators can use it to restrict software installations, suppress update prompts, or limit App Store actions to managed environments only.
The policy helps organizations standardize software deployment, prevent unauthorized app installations, and minimize user interruptions from system update notifications.
Requirements
Minimum OS version: macOS 10.9+
Management type: Device enrolled via Swif.ai MDM
Admin Access: Required to configure and assign the policy
Note: Some settings are deprecated in macOS 10.14 and later due to Apple’s evolving App Store management framework.
Configurable Settings
Setting | Description | Minimum Requirement |
Disable Software Update Notifications | Suppresses App Store software update alerts for users. Useful for IT-managed update cycles and reducing user interruptions. | macOS 10.10+ |
Restrict Store Disable App Adoption | Disables “App Adoption,” preventing the system from associating installed App Store apps with the user’s Apple ID. This ensures apps remain managed under the organization’s account. | macOS 10.10+ |
Restrict Store Software Update Only | Limits App Store functionality to software updates only. Users can install OS or app updates, but cannot browse or download new apps. | macOS 10.10+ |
Best Practices
Disable Software Update Notifications when managing OS updates centrally through MDM or automated deployment systems.
Use Restrict Store Software Update Only to keep App Store access focused on system maintenance, reducing the risk of users installing personal or unverified software.
Combine this policy with the Apple Application Policy for consistent app control and compliance.
How to Apply
In the Swif Admin Console, go to Policies → Create New Policy.
Select Apple App Store Policy.
Configure the desired restrictions (e.g., disable updates, require admin installation).
Click Continue and assign the policy to specific devices or device groups.
Review and confirm the policy to activate it.
Once applied, all selected macOS devices will inherit the configured App Store behavior automatically.
Compliance and Security Benefits
Prevents unauthorized app installations on company-managed devices.
Reduces security risk from unverified third-party software.
Minimizes distractions by controlling update notifications.
Supports compliance with software licensing and governance policies.
✅ Tip:
Pair the Apple App Store Policy with the Apple Software Update Policy to enforce centralized patching and maintain a consistent, secure macOS environment across your organization.