License SF Symbols for web and cross-platform use
Allow SF Symbols to be used on websites and non-Apple platforms, expanding beyond the current restriction to "mock-ups of user interfaces for software products running on Apple's iOS, iPadOS, macOS and tvOS operating systems."
The current licensing terms severely limit SF Symbols' utility, preventing their use in web interfaces, documentation sites, and cross-platform applications. This restriction forces developers and designers to find alternative icons that lack the visual consistency and recognition of Apple's carefully crafted symbol system.
Benefits of web licensing:
- Websites about Apple products could use recognizable iconography (like this very site!)
- Developer documentation and tutorials could use consistent symbols
- Cross-platform apps could maintain visual consistency across all versions
- Web apps that complement iOS/macOS apps could share the same visual language
Many developers already love SF Symbols for their quality, consistency, and comprehensive coverage. Making them available for web use would extend Apple's design influence while supporting the broader developer ecosystem that builds around Apple's platforms.
Current limitation example: This Apple tips and wishlist website would be significantly more polished with SF Symbols for categories like Photos 📸, Safari 🧭, Settings ⚙️, etc., but licensing prevents their use in web contexts.