To clarify, Apple can't see our source code but I imagine they can easily diff things like binary size and have basic decompiler tools to analyze things like what system APIs are called (how they bust you for private API use etc).

When we ship an update that adds a whole new branch of functionality that adds camera/mic interactions where there were none before (with all the new entitlements that requires) and the reviewer approves it without ever launching the app I laugh at comments like the GP

The store is trusted though. Do you not understand what "trusted" means in a sales context? It means I'll get the binary I'm supposed to get, everytime, and my CC info will be secure. If something goes wrong, they'll refund me.

This isn't about developers it's about consumers.

The word trusted doesn't change meanings when you move to a sales context unless you're a salesman.

Trusted simply means that the arrangement benefits $bigcorp's bottom line.

It only has a very specific meaning in software. To consumers Apple's App store is trusted.

I wonder what you would happen if you really probed a "consumer" about what they mean by trusted.

I can guarantee you they aren't going to mention code audits.

Please do guarantee this, and then actually go perform this experiment.