Ever since Apple launched the smartphone revolution with the iPhone, it has kept apps with +18 adult content out of the App Store. Steve Jobs made it the company’s general policy to block adult content in 18+ apps, both as a moral responsibility and for security reasons. But European Union rules undermine this company principle. Here’s the first app to break the Apple +18 app ban policy and details…
European Union rules iPhone overturn +18 adult content app ban
As you know, Apple, in European Union countries, switched to policies in line with the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) in 2024. Accordingly, Apple would now allow different application markets like Android. This led to applications outside the App Store being available on ecosystem devices such as iPhone and iPad.
An app marketplace called AltStore, which operates under the EU DMA law, broke new ground in Apple’s history. Accordingly, iPhone users will now be able to use this third-party App marketplace for apps that offer +18 content.

AltStore claims that the app, Hot Tub, meets all of Apple’s safety standards. Apple has expressed its concerns to the EU on this issue. The company has appealed to the EU to ban such apps on iPhone phone models, both for security concerns and moral reasons.
Although according to the DMA, Apple allows different app markets and their apps, apps are still subject to Apple approval. The AltStore app marketplace also said that the first +18 app for iPhone has been approved. Apple usually focuses on security vulnerabilities and whether apps collect personal data, rather than the subject matter of the app.
The statement made by the AltStore app marketplace on its X account angered Apple. Accordingly, AltStore touted the Hot Tub app as the first Apple-approved +18 app.
Apple was outraged by this statement and felt the need to make a statement:
“Contrary to the false statements made by the marketplace developer, we strongly disapprove of this app and will never offer it in our App Store,” Apple said. “The fact is that we are required by the European Commission to allow its distribution.”
Do you think the first +18 app for iPhone, which is not available in the Apple app store but can be installed from outside, could pose security risks, as Apple says? Do you think Apple’s ban on +18 apps is necessary? We are waiting for your comments and opinions.