I am developing a game using sprite kit.
When we create a new Spritekit project, by default a spaceship image is present in it.
I can delete the icon and make my own but I really like that icon for my spaceship-related game.
Can I use that sprite for my game or it will be a copyright infringement?
And what copyright usages are there on it, is it Public and does it have Attribution 3.0 license?
Best Answer
The Xcode license and your developer agreement are the two documents you should read carefully to be certain you understand your obligations, but Xcode is delivered to developers for the express purpose of making apps.
Clearly, the graphic elements like buttons and standard API are permitted use - royalty free per the licensing term. This is covered in the Xcode agreement which on some versions reads like this:
I've seen all sorts of programs use default sprites and effects, but you might want to consider paying someone for an alternate image if you are really uncomfortable with your understanding of the rules you agreed to to develop software using Apple's tools. To me, it seems that Apple would have paid for the rights to that artwork and you don't need to further compensate that artist as long as you are abiding by the agreements you signed with Apple to use Xcode.
If I were doing this, I would re-read the entire agreement I signed before sending that app to the App store - for many reasons beyond just this one image. If you are paying to be a Mac developer, you can certainly ask developer support to be clear that they understand your intentions and you have something in writing before shipping the app.
It really depends on several factors: