(MENAFN) Apple has voiced strong opposition to the launch of a new pornography app, Hot Tub, in the European Union, now available on iPhones through third-party app stores under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The app, introduced by the AltStore marketplace, is being marketed as the "world’s first Apple-approved porn app," though Apple has rejected this claim, emphasizing that it does not approve the app and would never offer it on its official App Store.

Apple argued that the new regulations, which require the company to allow third-party app stores in the EU, pose significant risks to user safety, particularly for children, and could harm consumer trust. The company is concerned that such apps could undermine the integrity of its ecosystem.

The Digital Markets Act, enacted in 2022, mandates changes to Apple’s business practices, including loosening restrictions on iPhone app downloads. Apple’s spokesperson, Peter Ajemian, stated that while the company is required to allow third-party stores to distribute apps like Hot Tub, it does not approve of the content and would never host it directly on its platform.

In response, AltStore accused Apple of using safety concerns as an excuse to protect its monopoly. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney also criticized Apple’s stance, pointing out that other platforms like Windows and Linux allow developers to release apps freely. He highlighted that the Reddit app, which hosts adult content, is available on the iOS App Store, despite Apple’s policy against pornographic material.

Apple has long banned explicit content from its App Store, with former CEO Steve Jobs emphasizing a “moral responsibility” to keep pornography off iPhones.

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