World’s 1st 'Apple-Approved P*** App' Turns Up On EU Store. iPhone Maker Hurries To Issue Clarification

The situation escalated when AltStore posted on X, calling Hot Tub “the world’s 1st Apple-approved p*** app.” Check out how Apple responded.

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has also joined in the fray with a comment on Apple's policies.

Source : X/@altstoreio

Apple has voiced serious concerns about a pornography app now accessible on iPhones in the European Union, arguing that the bloc's digital policies are eroding consumer confidence. The development follows the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in 2022, which compelled Apple to allow alternative app stores on its devices.

One such platform, AltStore, has made an app called Hot Tub available. The app claims to offer “a private, secure, and elegant way to browse adult content.” Although Apple’s mandatory cybersecurity review, known as notarization, cleared Hot Tub of malware threats, the company has stressed that it does not endorse the app, reported Reuters.

'Deeply concerned'

In a statement, Apple said it is “deeply concerned about the safety risks that hardcore porn apps of this type create for EU users, especially kids. This app and others like it will undermine consumer trust and confidence in our ecosystem.”

AltStore reportedly received backing from Fortnite creator Epic Games, a company that has previously challenged Apple over its app distribution practices. Media reports suggest that Epic’s funding has helped AltStore cover Apple-imposed fees on alternative stores currently under EU scrutiny.

How Did The Issue Begin?

The situation escalated when AltStore posted on X, calling Hot Tub “the world’s 1st Apple-approved porn app.” Apple strongly refuted this claim, stating, "Contrary to the false statements made by the marketplace developer, we certainly do not approve of this app and would never offer it in our App Store."

iPhone turns 18 this year, which means it’s finally old enough for some more ~mature~ apps…

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

— AltStore.io (@altstoreio) February 3, 2025

Apple clarified that its role in notarization is a regulatory obligation, adding, "The truth is that we are required by the European Commission to allow it to be distributed."

AltStore responded by saying that its comments on X referred solely to Apple’s notarization process while directing further inquiries to Hot Tub.

Epic Games Chief Has This To Say

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney also commented on X, saying, “When Apple are allowed to be the gatekeeper of competing apps and stores, they grossly misuse that power to disadvantage competition.” He further clarified that Epic’s EU app store does not host Hot Tub or any similar adult content.

Apple is being extremely disingenuous in attacking the European Union here. The iOS App Store hosts the Reddit app, which provides access to massive amounts of porn. Apple knows this, permits it, and gave Reddit a 17+ (!!!) rating and Editors Choice award. https://t.co/voZOzK4Xx7

— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) February 4, 2025

This dispute underscores the tensions between tech giants and regulators as they navigate evolving market dynamics and user safety concerns.