Access to /Apps/ folder for iOS developers

Question

I have a possible project which involves accessing the /Apps/ subfolder in iOS. My question is : Is it possible for developers to access the /Apps/ folder information and if yes can they rewrite a file inside another app (rewrite for ex. the app icon of another app). I am talking about rewriting files that would not interfere in any way with the work of the other app.

I'm asking if this is possible for legitimate application which would be submitted to the App Store.

The best example I can think of is the TapJoy network which is for incentivizing app downloads. They are able to detect whether you have downloaded a certain app and if you have played it even.

Thank You

Answer 1

No, it is not possible to access any file or folder outside of your own app's sandbox. This is a technical restriction that you can only get around on a jailbroken device. Also, if you managed to find some way to circumvent this then your app would be pulled from the App Store.

TapJoy works by having app developers participate and integrate their API. Apps that integrate TapJoy inform TapJoy's server when they are run.

Answer 2

Wouldn't any rewrite of another app break its digital signature (and thus prevent it from running)? So that's another reason the answer is NO.

Answer 3

Even if this were possible it would NEVER be accepted into the app store.

rewriting files that would not interfere in any way with the work of the other app

...as the owner of an App development company, I consider EVERY file within our apps essential to the correct operation of them, whether that be functional operation or branding, even changing an image or icon dilutes the message the original developer intended. Bad bad bad.