Did Apple approve its ‘First Porn App’ hot tub on the European Union iPhones? Increase in concerns over app store policies | Mint

Apple has expressed serious concern about the introduction of an adult content app, hot tub, which is now available on iPhones in the European Union, warning that new digital competition laws can put the safety of users at risk and consumer trust Can destroy, AP told.

The app was launched by Altstore Pal this week, a rival app marketplace, which has become accessible to the European Union-based iPhone users due to the European competition rules implemented in 2023.

In a social media post, Altstore shook the tub as the “world’s first Apple-approved porn app”. However, Apple rapidly rejected the claim, making it clear that it would never allow such an app in its app store. Apple further stressed that the European Commission under the Digital Markets Act legally required by the European Commission to allow the third-party app stores to work in the European Union, but it was emphasized that these The stores still have to meet some safety standards, such as Apple’s notarization process.

Noterization is a certification process that ensures that apps meet basic platform integrity standards. After passing this review, the app store itself decides whether to publish the app. Apple has insisted that while the tub has passed this certification, the company does not support the app and the app will not accept it in the store.

In a statement, Apple raised alarm on the potential hazards generated by adult material apps, especially for young users. “This app and others like other people will reduce consumer trust and faith in our ecosystem that we have worked for more than a decade to make the world the best,” Apple said. The company also expressed concern about such materials, especially for children, and to warn negative effects on user safety.

“The truth is that it is necessary to allow us to distribute the European Commission to be distributed by marketplace operators such as Altstore and Epic that users cannot share our concerns for safety. Under Apple’s rules, apps on rival marketplace still need to be certified by the company through the ‘notarization’ process. But app manufacturers are not allowed to suggest that Apple gives her support, ”Apple said in a statement.

Altstore responded to defending its position, saying that Thehot Tub app had gone through the notarypressing process of Apple. The store clarified that while Apple did not officially support the app, it was approved for distribution through notarization. “Apple has not supported the tub in any way. However, he has approved it,” Altstore said, further clarifying that the app was approved for distribution, not necessarily for its contents.

Epic game, which provides a megagrant to Altsore, has long been involved in controversy with Apple on its app distribution practices and App Store Commission fees. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeny strongly criticized Apple’s approach, saying “it is not how platforms should work”. He compared Apple’s policies unfavorable with more open systems of Windows, Mac and Linux, accusing Apple of stifting competition and misused his power on developers.

(With inputs Po_media and AP)