You might have heard about “Hot Tub,” an adult content app now accessible to iPhone users in the EU. Typically, Apple does not permit such apps on its platformโand in this case, they didnโt. The app is not available through Appleโs App Store but is instead distributed via AltStore PAL, a third-party app marketplace enabled by the EUโs Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The DMA mandates that Apple allow alternative app stores in the EU, and AltStore is one such platform. Reports suggest that Hot Tub enables users to search and stream videos from adult sites like Pornhub and Xvideos. It describes itself as “An elegant, native porn app. Thoughtfully designed, ethically made, and free to use.”
However, Hot Tub has made a bold claimโthat it is the first “Apple-approved” porn app for iPhone. Apple strongly denies this assertion.
Apple expresses security concerns
In response to the claims, Apple issued a firm statement:
โWe are deeply concerned about the safety risks that hardcore porn apps of this type create for EU users, especially children. This app and others like it will undermine consumer trust and confidence in our ecosystem, which we have worked for more than a decade to make the best in the world. 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.โ
While Apple did not directly approve Hot Tub, the app did pass its notarisation process, which only scans for malware and fraud. This is not the same as Appleโs usual rigorous app review process. Under the DMA, Apple now has limited control over what apps third-party stores can distribute.
Apple also revealed that it had raised concerns about the app with the European Commission as early as December, but no action was taken to prevent its release on AltStore PAL.
Epic Gamesโ involvement with AltStore PAL
AltStore PALโs developer, Riley Testut, announced that the platformโs February Patreon earnings will be donated to organisations supporting sex workers and the LGBTQ+ community. Testut stated, โWe feel this is necessary to fight back against recent harmful policies by politicians, Meta, and others, and we encourage everyone to help however you can.โ
Interestingly, Appleโs statement also mentioned Epic Games. Reports indicate that Epic Games provided AltStore PAL with a “MegaGrant,” which significantly contributed to the storeโs ability to drop its subscription requirement after launching last year. This adds another layer to the ongoing conflict between Apple and Epic Games, which began with the removal of Fortnite from the App Store due to a dispute over in-app payments.
