App Rejection Due to Use of C Linux API While Other Apps in Tizen Store Use Similar APIs

Problem Understanding

The issue stems from Tizen's strict API whitelist policy:

1. Only specific .so libraries and their symbols are permitted
2. Using non-whitelisted APIs results in automatic rejection
3. The whitelist isn't publicly documented clearly

Solution Methods

1. Understand the Whitelist System:

   • Tizen maintains a list of approved libraries and functions
   • Even documented APIs might be restricted if marked as unstable/internal
   • Example: Xlib functions are blocked due to Tizen's move to Wayland

2. Workaround Approaches:

   • Use dlopen() and dlsym() for dynamic loading (with proper error handling)
   • Create wrapper functions for restricted APIs
   • Statically link critical functions where possible

3. Appeal Process:

   • Join #tizen on irc.freenode.net for direct developer support
   • Clearly document your API usage and justification
   • Consider submitting a stripped-down version first to identify exact rejection reasons

Code Examples

// Example of dynamic loading workaround
void* lib_handle = dlopen("libexample.so", RTLD_LAZY);
if (lib_handle) {
    typedef int (*func_ptr)(int);
    func_ptr my_func = (func_ptr)dlsym(lib_handle, "restricted_function");
    if (my_func) {
        // Use the function
        int result = my_func(42);
    }
    dlclose(lib_handle);
}

Additional Tips

1. The whitelist issue particularly affects:

   • System-level functionality (like app locking)
   • Low-level Linux APIs
   • Certain multimedia functions

2. For app locker functionality specifically:

   • Consider using Tizen's official AppControl API
   • Target newer SDK versions (2.4+) for more features
   • Be prepared for platform limitations on security-sensitive operations

3. Community Resources:

   • #tizen and #edevelop on irc.freenode.net
   • Tizen developer documentation at samsungtizenos.com
   • Unity forums for whitelist examples