Hot Tub: The First Adult Content App for iPhone via AltStore PAL
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.
On Monday, AltStore launched Hot Tub, an adult content aggregator that enables iOS users to search and stream videos from popular porn websites, including Pornhub, Xvideos, XNXX, and XHamster. The app is now available for AltStore PAL users in the EU to download on their iPhones. 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.
App Features and Distribution
Hot Tub, an ad-free "adult content browser," has officially passed Apple’s notarisation review for fraud, security risks, and functionality, according to AltStore PAL developer Riley Testut. 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.
Core Specifications
- App Name: Hot Tub
- Category: Adult content aggregator
- Marketplace: AltStore PAL
- Availability: EU users (iOS)
- Supported Sites: Pornhub, Xvideos, XNXX, and XHamster
Regulatory Context and Apple's Notarisation
Under the new EU Digital Markets Act, Apple is now required to allow users the option of using alternative app stores, which don't follow the same strict rules as the App Store. 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.
Security Concerns and Corporate Pushback
Apple has raised concerns over the porn app now rolling out in Europe. The tech giant has pushed back against claims that Hot Tub is the “first Apple-approved porn app,” stressing 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 said: “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 stated: “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.”
Additionally, Apple highlighted that the European Commission's regulations prevent the company from blocking what it deems repugnant content from appearing on alternative app marketplaces. Apple has also raised concerns about the inclusion of a “teen” channel featuring content from Pornhub.
Developer Perspective
Despite Apple’s concerns, AltStore PAL’s Riley Testut maintains the app is “elegant, native, thoughtfully designed, ethically made and free to use.” The developer emphasizes that it has gained approval through Apple's notarisation process, ensuring that it meets security and functionality standards.