Apple Criticizes iPhone Porn Apps, Blaming EU Rules

Apple has raised concerns over the emergence of an app featuring adult content in the European Union, stating that the new EU regulations allowing the download of apps from third-party stores are undermining consumer trust in its ecosystem, reports NewsBox.

AltStore PAL, an alternative app store developed in accordance with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), recently launched the Hot Tub app for iPhones, which is marketed as a browser for adult content, according to The Associated Press.

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) aims to boost competition in the digital realm, requiring major tech companies like Apple to allow users to download apps from alternative sources, rather than restricting them to official app stores.

AltStore PAL claimed on social media that Hot Tub is "the world's first Apple-approved porn app."

Apple refuted this claim, emphasizing that the availability of such apps "undermines consumer trust" in its ecosystem.

"Contrary to the developer's false claims, we do not endorse this app and would never offer it on our App Store. The truth is, the European Commission requires us to permit its distribution by marketplace operators like AltStore and Epic, who may not share our concerns about user safety," stated the company.

Apple notes that apps in alternative stores still need to undergo "notarization"—a certification process by the company—but this does not mean Apple approves them.

AltStore is supported by a grant from Epic Games, which has long contested Apple's rules on app distribution for iPhone and its fees for digital transactions.

AltStore representatives responded to Apple by saying the company "continues to use security as a pretext to protect its monopoly power and avoid complying with the DMA." Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney also criticized Apple, noting that on other platforms like Windows, Mac, and Linux, "developers can create and distribute apps without the need for the platform maker to add unwanted levies or make moral judgments on their choices."

In line with the DMA requirements, Apple had to adjust its business practices. Specifically, the company eased restrictions in the App Store, allowing users in EU countries to download iPhone apps from stores not controlled by Apple.

Apple has repeatedly criticized the new rules, arguing that they expose European users to the risk of encountering questionable services, such as those dealing with pornography, illegal drugs, and content the company has long banned from the App Store.

In its latest statement, Apple reiterated its "deep concern over the security risks these hardcore porn apps pose to EU users, especially children."

The European Commission has not yet commented on the situation.