Apple guidelines restrict the use of Apple devices as prizes in contests, a powerful promotional tool used by publishers, authors and publicists to gain attention for projects.
Here are the specific guidelines: “iPad, iPhone and the iPhone Gift Card may not be used in third-party promotions … The use of ‘free’ as a modifier in any Apple product reference in a prominent manner (headlines, callouts, etc.) is prohibited. Additionally, ‘free’ as an modifier of Apple products in a less prominent context is strongly discouraged unless it is clear to the end consumer that the third party, not Apple, is gifting the product in return for some transaction. (Ex. ‘Sign up for a checking account and we’ll give you an iPod shuffle.’ or ‘Win an iPod nano when you refer a 10 friends to [INSERT COMPANY NAME]’).”
What do you think? According to CNN Money, the tech company has started contacting companies that break these rules.