EU’s Digital Markets Act Paves the Way for Native iPhone Porn App
A significant development in the EU’s digital landscape has enabled the launch of Hot Tub, the first native iPhone pornography app, via the alternative app store AltStore PAL. This milestone is made possible by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which allows app developers to release iPhone and iPad apps through alternative marketplaces.
Hot Tub: A New Era for Adult Content on iOS
Hot Tub is an aggregator app that enables iOS users to search and play videos from various adult websites, including Pornhub, Xvideos, XNXX, and XHamster. While it has always been possible to access adult content through the iPhone’s web browser, Hot Tub offers a native app experience with features like built-in search, gestures, customizable controls, and subscriber-only features.
The Role of the Digital Markets Act
The DMA has created a new landscape for app development and distribution in the EU. By allowing alternative app stores to operate, the DMA enables developers to release apps that may not comply with Apple’s App Store Guidelines. However, these apps must still meet baseline platform integrity standards through Apple’s Notarization process.
AltStore and the Approval Process
AltStore, the alternative app store behind Hot Tub, claims that the app’s approval is a first for an iPhone app to go through the Notarization process. According to AltStore developer Riley Testut, the company did not encounter any issues during the approval process. Apple has since responded, expressing concerns about the safety risks associated with hardcore porn apps and emphasizing that it does not approve of Hot Tub or similar apps.
The Broader Implications
The launch of Hot Tub raises important questions about the future of app development and distribution in the EU. As alternative app stores like AltStore PAL gain traction, developers may increasingly turn to these platforms to release apps that push the boundaries of what is acceptable. However, this also raises concerns about user safety, particularly for children, and the potential for apps to undermine consumer trust in the ecosystem.
