Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 3 hrs ago
Apple tightens App Store rules on AI-generated intimate images
Apple has tightened its rules for apps on the App Store to address AI-generated intimate images made without people’s consent.
The rules require developers to prevent and remove nonconsensual sexual images shared or created through their apps.
The change follows criticism over AI tools being used to make sexualized deepfakes, including images of minors.
Apple also says apps that hide harmful features, such as image “nudification,” until after approval can be removed.
Developers who fail to add safeguards or fix violations after being notified risk losing their App Store access.
Apple says apps that facilitate human trafficking or child exploitation will be removed and blocked from alternative distribution.
Apple updated its App Store rules to require developers to prevent and remove nonconsensual intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes.
Apps may be removed if developers fail to put adequate safeguards in place or address violations after notice.
Apple also clarified that apps hiding harmful features, such as “nudification,” may be removed for misleading the app review process.
The updated rules say apps that facilitate human trafficking or child exploitation will be removed and blocked from alternative distribution.
The changes follow criticism over AI-generated sexualized images and reports of “nudify” apps on the App Store.
- Who
- Apple and developers of apps distributed through the App Store.
- What
- Apple updated its rules on nonconsensual intimate imagery, hidden app features, and apps facilitating trafficking or child exploitation.
- When
- October 16, 2026.
- Where
- Apple’s App Store and alternative app distribution.
- Why
- The changes aim to strengthen protections against harmful content and deceptive app review practices.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The Tech Transparency Project identified dozens of AI-powered “nudify” apps on the App Store.
The Tech Transparency Project reported that App Store search suggestions and advertisements were directing users to such apps.
Protestors at Apple’s WWDC event called on the company to remove Grok, X, and nudify technology from the App Store.
San Francisco officials ordered Apple to remove nudify apps; reports differ on whether the order covered eight or 13 apps.
Apple announced updated App Store rules covering nonconsensual intimate imagery, hidden features, and trafficking or child exploitation.
- Updated
- App Store rules announced October 16, 2026
- Section 1.2
- Covers user-generated content, including nonconsensual intimate imagery
- Section 2.5.19
- Prohibits hidden, dormant, or undocumented app features
- Section 5
- Trafficking and child exploitation apps will be blocked from alternative distribution
- Possible penalty
- App removal for developers who fail to implement safeguards or remedy violations
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What people are saying
We do not hesitate to remove apps, and terminate the developers behind them, when they violate these guidelines
Developers who fail to implement appropriate safeguards or fail to remediate identified violations after notice may be considered in violation of the Developer Code of Conduct.