Apple Clarifies Stance on Porn App Distribution via Third-Party Stores

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Apple has updated how it communicates with developers to clear up its position on a contentious app after facing backlash related to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The tweak involved changing three words in an email sent to developers, and it follows the launch of a porn app called Hot Tub, which can now be downloaded on iPhones in the EU via a third-party app store, AltStore PAL.

Third-Party App Stores and Apple's Worries

The whole situation kicked off when the app showed up on AltStore, leading to some misleading headlines that made it sound like Apple had given the green light for it on their platform. The root of the issue lies in the European Union's Digital Markets Act, which requires Apple to allow third-party app stores on iPhones. While Apple did comply, they tried to make it a bit tricky for users to access these alternative stores.

Apple raised concerns about keeping certain types of apps, like adult content, off their platform. They've always had a strict no-porn policy in their App Store. But thanks to the DMA, Apple had to let third-party marketplaces like AltStore and Epic distribute apps, even if those apps didn't meet Apple's safety and content standards, as reported by 9to5Mac.

Although Apple can still review apps for security and privacy before they go live, it was pointed out that once an app passed those checks, developers got an email saying the app was “approved” for release. This wording caused some confusion since Apple hadn’t actually backed the app's content..

Apple Updates Language to Clear Up Confusion

Apple has updated how it communicates with developers. The latest email now says the app is “ready for distribution” instead of “approved for distribution,” which clarifies that Apple isn’t endorsing the app or its content.

Riley Testut from AltStore pointed out this change in Apple’s developer emails. The new wording aligns better with Apple’s position on distributing third-party apps in light of the new regulations.

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