Apple has updated the language in its privacy policy for
HealthKit to prevent apps from selling data to "advertising platforms, data brokers or information resellers," notes the
Financial Times. HealthKit will allow iOS 8 apps to exchange health and fitness data tracked via various accessories, such as the iWatch. The iOS upgrade is rumored to launch next month
alongside the iWatch and the iPhone 6.
Though developers might potentially sell the data anyway, anyone caught doing so would have their apps kicked out of the App Store. Advertisers could theoretically use the information to market products like supplements, accessories and medical treatments.
Apple itself will also have to be careful with HealthKit data, since it's treading into areas regulated by government agencies like the US Food and Drug Administration. The company is believed to have
met with FDA officials last December, presumably to discuss compliance with federal guidelines and laws.