Tag: EU Digital Markets Act

  • Apple Faces EU Rules Amid Launch of First Porn App for iPhone

    Apple Faces EU Rules Amid Launch of First Porn App for iPhone

    For a long time, Apple has kept a tight grip on the applications that can be used on iPhones, with a distinct rule against any form of pornography. However, this has now shifted, at least in Europe. An adult content application named Hot Tub has appeared on iPhones through a different app marketplace, raising significant concerns from Apple.

    EU Legislation Changes the Game

    The app is marketed as an “adult content browser” and allows users to access videos from well-known adult websites such as Pornhub and XHamster. However, it isn’t accessible through the official App Store. Instead, Hot Tub can be found on AltStore PAL, which is an independent app marketplace that emerged due to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). This important law compels Apple to permit third-party app stores, offering developers greater flexibility to share their software beyond Apple’s conventional restrictions.

    Apple Responds to the Controversy

    Though Apple claims it did not endorse Hot Tub, the app successfully completed its notarization process, a security measure aimed at eliminating malware and scams. This led AltStore PAL to dub it “the world’s first Apple-approved porn app,” a statement that Apple has strongly contested. In their response, the company stated, “In contrast to the misleading claims made by the marketplace developer, we absolutely do not approve of this app and would never allow it in our App Store.” Apple also voiced serious worries about the potential safety risks posed by adult content apps, especially regarding minors.

    The Future of App Distribution

    AltStore PAL, which was established by Riley Testut, has received backing from Epic Games, a firm that has been embroiled in a lengthy legal dispute with Apple concerning its app store regulations. Notably, Epic’s CEO Tim Sweeney has distanced the company from the situation, stating that Hot Tub is not available on the Epic Games Store.

    Currently, Hot Tub is only accessible in the EU. Nonetheless, as alternative app stores become more popular, this may signal the onset of a new phase where Apple no longer has the ultimate authority on which apps iPhone users can download.

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  • EU Investigation Sought by Price Comparison Sites Over Google Search Changes

    EU Investigation Sought by Price Comparison Sites Over Google Search Changes

    Last month, Google announced a range of updates to its Search platform to align with the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA). The tech giant claims it has implemented over 20 modifications, including specialized units and formats aimed at enhancing the visibility of comparison websites throughout Europe.

    Impact on Users and Businesses

    Google pointed out that the removal of certain features from Search, such as flight details and limited functions in clickable maps, has adversely affected users in Europe. The company reported that smaller businesses, including "airlines, hotel operators, and small retailers," are finding it more difficult to connect with customers, with some noting a drop in booking clicks of up to 30%.

    Testing New Formats

    Additionally, Google is pilot testing a new format resembling the older "ten blue links" style that was used in Germany, Belgium, and Estonia. Over the past three years, the search behemoth has engaged in dialogue with comparison services but has yet to establish a format that meets DMA requirements and is seen as favorable.

    Concerns from Comparison Websites

    In an open letter from last year, comparison websites expressed their concerns that Google continues to favor its own Comparison Shopping Services (CSS). They argue that paid results using CSS appear on search engine results pages (SERP), which effectively pushes their listings down unless they opt into Google’s CSS.

    In a recent open letter shared with Reuters, these websites emphasized that Google has "simply, repeatedly, ignored this feedback, and instead continued to iterate on the same non-compliant solution for months."

    Call for EU Action

    The comparison websites are calling on the EU to take action against Google, asking for "preliminary findings" and the imposition of fines, including ongoing penalty payments, to compel Google to finally heed their concerns and comply with regulations.

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