First Porn App 'Approved' for the iPhone in Europe

For the first time, a porn app will be available in an alternative Apple app store. The app is called Hot Tub, and its developer, Riley Testut, says the app has been approved by Apple (per The Verge). Consequently, the app is actually being marketed as the "first Apple-approved porn app".

The Impact of the Digital Markets Act (DMA)

The app will be available on AltStore PAL, which is an alternative app store. These are only available in Europe, due to the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates that large companies such as Apple have to offer alternative marketplaces for apps. Apple does not allow pornographic apps in its App Store, but the alternative app stores are allowed to have different rules. In particular, AltStore PAL doesn't appear to explicitly prohibit any type of apps. "All apps are welcome," wrote Testut in an announcement blog post.

Apple's Official Response and Safety Concerns

Apple isn't happy about this development. While the app has passed Apple's Notarisation process that ensures the app is safe, Apple is adamantly against porn on its App Store. This is only partially true regarding the "approval" status. Apple said in a statement to The Verge: "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 further clarified its position, 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. The truth is that we are required by the European Commission to allow it to be distributed by marketplace operators like AltStore and Epic who may not share our concerns for user safety."

Hot Tub App Details and Availability

The Hot Tub app is described as an "adult content browser," and it will be available for iPhone on Tuesday, February 4, but only for folks in the EU. Details regarding the launch are summarized below:

Feature	Details
App Name	Hot Tub
Developer	Riley Testut
Marketplace	AltStore PAL
Availability	EU users only
Release Date	Tuesday, February 4, 2025