TechCrunch reports that Apple updated its developer guidelines over the weekend to ban nudify apps and software that uses AI to generate offensive material. The policy changes also target programs that masquerade as regular utilities during the App Store review process before exposing harmful capabilities to users.
Key takeaways
- Apple tightened its rules to prohibit applications that create offensive AI content.
- Deceptive apps hiding functions until after approval are now explicitly banned.
- Platforms must filter objectionable material and provide reporting tools for users.
- San Francisco previously ordered Apple and Google to remove nudify apps in July.
How do the new Apple developer guidelines target nudify apps?
The revised policies introduce strong language regarding artificial intelligence and user-generated content. According to TechCrunch, software creators must include preventative measures to moderate objectionable material. Programs hosting user-generated content must filter bad material, let users report offensive items, and allow blocks on abusive accounts.
Apple stated that hidden or undocumented features are prohibited. This covers bait-and-switch tactics where programs misrepresent their purpose during the App store review and only reveal harmful capabilities later.
What are the rules for user-generated content and App store review?
The company stated it will remove any software that adds features missing from the version originally submitted for review. Also, the iPhone maker updated its legal section to reinforce that it will bar programs promoting human trafficking and the exploitation of children.
TechCrunch notes that Apple blocked over 150,000 submissions from reaching users last year and removed 193,000 developer accounts due to fraud and abuse.
What happens next?
The policy update follows pressure from local authorities and public reports. In July, San Francisco ordered Apple and Google to delete nudification apps from their storefronts, with City Attorney David Chiu accusing both companies of profiting from store fees. An April report from the Tech Transparency Project also showed that both tech giants hosted multiple nudifying programs, including some rated as suitable for minors.
Frequently asked questions
Apple updated its guidelines to ban apps that use AI to create offensive material and prohibit software that masquerades as regular utilities to pass review before turning into nudify apps.
A bait-and-switch tactic involves apps misrepresenting their purpose during the review process and only revealing harmful capabilities, such as nudification, after gaining approval.
Apps hosting user-generated content must filter objectionable material, provide a way for users to report offensive content, and let users block abusive accounts.
In July, San Francisco ordered Apple and Google to delete nudification apps from their stores, and City Attorney David Chiu accused the companies of profiting from these apps through store fees.
Apple stated that its review process blocked over 150,000 apps from reaching users and removed 193,000 developer accounts due to fraud and abuse.
Based on reporting by TechCrunch. Read the original article
