GoKawiilApple updates App Store rules to explicitly ban nudify and bait-and-switch apps
Apple revised its developer guidelines over the weekend to prohibit apps that use AI to generate offensive content, including those that hide 'nudification' features during review and reveal them only after approval. The company said apps with user-generated content must filter objectionable material, allow reporting of abuse, and let users block accounts, and it strengthened legal language against apps enabling human trafficking or child exploitation.
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The move follows pressure on Apple and Google, including a July order from San Francisco's city attorney demanding removal of nudify apps and an April report finding such apps rated suitable for minors in both stores. Tightening the rules could make it harder for developers to disguise harmful apps during review, though enforcement will depend on how aggressively Apple audits post-approval updates.
- Apple now explicitly bans apps that reveal nudify features only after passing review.
- The guidelines also strengthen bans on content enabling human trafficking or child exploitation.
- The update follows legal pressure from San Francisco and findings that nudify apps were available to minors.
Source: techcrunch.com — Ivan Mehta, 2026-10-19
Published there as: “Apple updates guidelines to ban nudify apps masquerading as regular apps to pass review”
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