What is Hot Tub? 'Approved' porn app sparks security warning amid iPhone rollout in Europe

The first-ever "approved" porn app for iPhones is now rolling out in Europe, thanks to the AltStore PAL alternative app marketplace. This has been made possible by the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which allows third-party app stores to operate on iOS devices. While iPhone users have always been able to access these sites through a web browser, the DMA now allows developers to distribute apps outside Apple's official App Store.

Overview of the Hot Tub App

AltStore recently launched Hot Tub, an ad-free "adult content browser" and aggregator that enables iOS users to search and stream videos from popular porn websites. According to AltStore PAL developer Riley Testut, the app is “elegant, native, thoughtfully designed, ethically made and free to use.” The app will allow users to stream videos from several platforms, including:

  • Pornhub
  • Xvideos
  • XNXX
  • XHamster

Security Standards and the Notarisation Process

Hot Tub has officially passed Apple’s notarisation review for fraud, security risks, and functionality. Under the new EU Digital Markets Act, these apps still need to be checked by Apple to ensure they are not fraudulent, don't weaken iPhone security, and function correctly. However, there are no restrictions on the content available through these alternative app stores.

Apps distributed via these third-party platforms in the EU only require notarisation, as opposed to the more extensive approval process typically used by Apple. These alternative marketplaces have the freedom to approve apps that would typically violate Apple's strict App Store Guidelines, giving developers more control over the types of content they offer.

Apple's Stance and Safety Concerns

Apple has raised concerns over the porn app now rolling out in Europe and has strongly pushed back against claims that Hot Tub is the “first Apple-approved porn app.” The tech giant stressed that the EU’s alternative app store approval system is far less rigorous than its own, focusing mainly on functionality and security rather than content restrictions.

In a statement clarifying its stance, Apple stated: “We are 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 that we have worked for more than a decade to make the best in the world.”

Apple also highlighted that the European Commission's regulations prevent the company from blocking what it deems repugnant content from appearing on alternative app marketplaces. Specific concerns were raised about the inclusion of a “teen” channel featuring content from Pornhub. Despite these objections, the app is now available for AltStore PAL users in the EU to download on their iPhones.

Key Information Summary

  • App Name: Hot Tub
  • Category: Adult content aggregator
  • Marketplace: AltStore PAL
  • Legal Framework: EU Digital Markets Act (DMA)
  • Security Status: Passed Apple's notarisation review