Apple castigates EU digital laws over controversial third-party app

A new app, available through the AltStore PAL third-party app store in the European Union (EU), has fanned the flames of Apple's contention with the EU's digital distribution laws.

The app, called Hot Tub, allows users to browse adult content. It was made available for download via AltStore PAL, a popular third-party app market only available on iOS devices in the EU. Third-party app stores have been available on iOS devices since earlier this year, when Apple was forced to comply with the EU's Digital Markets Act, or DMA. 

AltStore PAL launched the app on Monday and said they "didn't have any issues getting the app approved." Under the DMA, Apple not only has to allow third-party app stores, but must also allow certain types of apps it once deemed unacceptable for its official app store. These include apps involving adult content.

However, the app in question claimed it was approved by Apple in marketing, a statement the Cupertino colossus found highly objectionable. Apple fired back, stating it had not endorsed the app, as it claimed the marketing material implied. In a statement, the company 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.... 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.

It should be noted that Apple has never allowed apps designed specifically for adult content on the App Store. Apple has further cited the app as something that could be harmful to its customers, an argument it used against the DMA prior to its forced compliance. As it stands, the app does not seem to violate any EU laws or policies and will likely remain available in the region.