The first adult content browser for iOS goes live and Apple is already ranting about it
This week saw the launch of the world"s first "Apple-approved porn app," now accessible on the AltStore PAL, a third-party app store in Europe, thanks to the Digital Markets Act.
Cupertino rejected that description, stating that the company "does not approve of this app" and criticized the EU"s DMA for exposing Europeans to "unsavory services such as pornography, illegal drugs," and other content that is prohibited from the App Store.
iPhone turns 18 this year, which means it’s finally old enough for some more ~mature~ apps…
— AltStore.io (@altstoreio) February 3, 2025
Introducing Hot Tub by @C1d3rDev, the world’s 1st Apple-approved porn app!
Try it now on AltStore PAL — just in time for the season of love ❤️
Source: https://t.co/81ja9rSpCR pic.twitter.com/VW37rb6K5h
A report from Euronews and Associated Press highlighted that Apple must still certify apps for its operating system, no matter if they are only available on third-party app stores. Nevertheless, Apple clarified that this certification does not imply that any app is "endorsed."
The European Union compelled the company to expand its services to increase competition, enabling users to download third-party app stores. One such store, AltStore, receives support from Epic, a gaming company that has spent years contesting Apple"s app distribution practices.
AltStore PAL third-party iOS app store
Apple pointed out in a statement that the European Commission is allowing marketplace operators like AltStore and Epic to distribute content that may not share Apple"s concerns for safety.
AltStore responded by stating US company "continues to use safety as a pretext to protect their monopoly power" and evade compliance with the DMA.
