Apple bans selfie sticks, monopods from WWDC 2015

In an update to the rules for Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple is banning 2015 attendees from using selfie sticks or any other kind of photo monopod within the bounds of either Moscone West or Yerba Buena Gardens.

Developers were already blocked from making audio or video recordings of WWDC events, or using professional photo equipment, but photography using phones or compact cameras was (and is) permitted. During events like the opening keynote, selfie sticks could potentially give attendees unobstructed shots of the stage, but might also block the views of other audience members and Apple's own camera crews.

"You are not permitted to make audio or audiovisual recordings of WWDC or take professional photographic or video equipment, or wearable recording devices into Moscone West or Yerba Buena Gardens," Apple's information page reads. "In addition, you may not use selfie sticks or similar monopods within Moscone West or Yerba Buena Gardens."

Such sticks have rapidly grown in popularity during the past year. A number of other major events have already banned them though, such as this week's Coachella festival in California, again over concerns about them obstructing the views of other people.

WWDC 2015 is scheduled for June 8 through 12 in San Francisco. Apple is expected to showcase iOS 9 and OS X 10.11, likely making early versions available to developers as it prepares them to support new features.