[StableAlkyne]

Is there any malware exploiting this feature? I can imagine "can never be uninstalled" would be a desirable quality.

Especially if the flag doesn't expire, a bad actor could upload a flashlight app with this requirement, let the 20% or whatever tech savvy users balk at the permission, then update later to constantly serve ads or spy or whatever to the remaining 80%, who are now unable to uninstall.

Alternatively, a standard skinner-box inspired mobile game that refuses to uninstall after you've become addicted and traded the ability to uninstall for 500 PremiumBucks or whatever.

I'm legitimately surprised this is a permission that exists outside of the root user

[HnUser12]

You can always disable screen time permission and uninstall it. Also apps must get a special permission for using this API from Apple, if that’s any consolation.

[pityJuke]

I'd assume that's why there is a separate review process to gain entitlement to this API, no?

(Don't know how this works outside of the App Store, which is an interesting question.)