Apple Will Not Distribute 'Porn' and Other Inappropriate Content

[MacRumors]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/06/26/apple-will-not-distribute-porn-and-other-inappropriate-content/)

After the news broke (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/06/25/iphone-3-0-parental-controls-now-allows-for-explicit-content-on-app-store/) that the first iPhone application with nudity was released, the app was quickly removed from the App Store. Despite the developer initially claiming that it was removed voluntarily to relieve server load, it seems that Apple may have had an active role in its removal. Apple PR told CNN (http://scitech.blogs.cnn.com/2009/06/25/apple-approves-soft-core-porn-for-iphone/) that the app had been removed and that Apple will not distribute "porn" or other inappropriate content:Apple will not distribute applications that contain inappropriate content, such as pornography. The developer of this application added inappropriate content directly from their server after the application had been approved and distributed, and after the developer had subsequently been asked to remove some offensive content. This was a direct violation of the terms of the iPhone Developer Program. The application is no longer available on the App Store.To call this particular application "porn" is a bit of a stretch but made for good headlines across the web. The removal by Apple is is interesting, however, as Apple's rating system does seem to allow for "nudity" specifically.

Article Link: Apple Will Not Distribute 'Porn' and Other Inappropriate Content (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/06/26/apple-will-not-distribute-porn-and-other-inappropriate-content/)

[dukebound85]

inappropriate is so subjective

[TheShinyMac]

I think that was a good move by apple, keepin the app store clean:D

[applecultvictim]

Good choice apple. :):apple:

I have to admit, and I am not at all ashamed, that I have watched a lot of porn in my lifetime to know both the pleasures and perils of it.

And I very much like that some places will be kept COMPLETELY free of it, since it's all over the place in every other place you look at, from emails to websites, to pretty much everywhere. As well as the quasi porn stuff that gets passed off as teenager music and mens mags these days.

Thanks for keeping things clean apple.

[aristotle]

This is a good thing. If you want porn, search for it on the web yourself. Porn is like a drug. It's a trap.

[ghostface147]

They may not be willing to allow porn on the app store (which I agree with), but at least I can make amateur porn with the SO and upload it to youporn soon. Thank you 3G S with video.

[dejo]

My question is: was Apple mad because of the actual content or because of the sneaky way the developer added new content?

[Darkroom]

that's so progressive of you, apple. :rolleyes:

This is a good thing. If you want porn, search for it on the web yourself. Porn is like a drug. It's a trap.

1. this comment is in line with extremist muslims who claim women must cover themselves in order not to get raped. be aware that most of us have what's known as "self control".
2. Mobile Safari is great for porn searches!

[PharmD]

This is a good thing. If you want porn, search for it on the web yourself. Porn is like a drug. It's a trap.

This. Good move Apple.

[Goona]

Thank God, my little sisters like to search the app store and download apps. They don't need to be seeing that garbage.

[Hattig]

What's the point of adult age limits then?

Way to go Apple, dictate your own morality on the rest of the world, because you operate the only application store for your devices.

[SolRayz]

I think that was a good move by apple, keepin the app store clean:D

Clean as a button.:rolleyes: If it were me I would ban the pocket god...:rolleyes:

[Virgil-TB2]

... Article Link: Apple Will Not Distribute 'Porn' and Other Inappropriate Content (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/06/26/apple-will-not-distribute-porn-and-other-inappropriate-content/)If this is true it's really big news. Despite what everyone thinks and what most of the tech blogs have been saying, Apple has never explicitly said what it would do in this regard. This is the first announcement to that effect.

It could also have a huge backlash since the USA is one of the most backward, prudish countries in terms of what is considered "appropriate" content. For Apple to universally disallow programs and imagery to adults, which is actually considered okay for children in the rest of the world is nothing short of outrageous.

It's also incredibly hypocritical. The USA decides for he rest of the world what is okay and what is not okay?

I don't believe this is actually true or "the whole story" in that (without exaggeration) this could literally sink the iPhone as a desirable product if the regional stores and the countries in which the product is on sale don't have any control over the content.

[imwoblin]

This kind of stuff always cracks me up. Showing women in bikinis posing provocatively and artistic nudity always seems to terrify Americans, while showing killing and mayhem and doctors picking through human remains while cracking jokes on the autopsy table seems the norm (just turn the tv on any channel in prime time). Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy violence and mayhem probably a little more than most folks (USMC Force Recon 8 years), but enough already.

[sam011989]

so now the question is.......will people who bought the app at any point sense the initial release of the app get a refund?

I'd love to hear the legalities of this if they dont

[macduke]

I'm glad that it's not in there simply for the reason of it coming up while browsing the app store or while looking at the newest apps on appshopper.com. If you're so addicted that you need porn on the go then you should go get some therapy. Stuff like that should be kept in the privacy of your own home. I don't want some guy touching himself while I'm riding the bus. Although sometimes that happens regardless.

[applecultvictim]

This kind of stuff always cracks me up. Showing women in bikinis posing provocatively and artistic nudity always seems to terrify Americans, while showing killing and mayhem and doctors picking through human remains while cracking jokes on the autopsy table seems the norm (just turn the tv on any channel in prime time). Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy violence and mayhem probably a little more than most folks (USMC Force Recon 8 years), but enough already.

that's a very good point, but apple can't be expected to overturn social modes that are age old. We are talking of the most puritanical society in the states here, i.e. hypocritical in these matters.

[Gasu E.]

The most interesting aspect of this item will be watching the "positive" and "negative" votes roll in...

**Al Gore 2000**

[longofest]

Apple seems to once again be contradicting themselves when it comes to their acceptance guidelines. Why have a category for nudity and not allow porn? In my book, the app in question was indeed soft-porn, yet was classified as nudity... both of which were applicable.

Personally, I am in favor of Apple not approving explicit porn (people can just go onto the web if they want it, after all), but they do need to come up with much clearer guidelines.

[Queso]

This is a good thing. If you want porn, search for it on the web yourself. Porn is like a drug. It's a trap.
I disagree. There are a small minority that get addicted to it, but most people can watch a little bit without it taking over their lives.

[ghostface147]

Showing women in bikinis posing provocatively and artistic nudity always seems to terrify Americans, while showing killing and mayhem and doctors picking through human remains while cracking jokes on the autopsy table seems the norm (just turn the tv on any channel in prime time). Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy violence and mayhem probably a little more than most folks (USMC Force Recon 8 years), but enough already.


Agreed. America is very backwards in it's decency. Protect the kids from sex, porn and the such, but showing a corpse getting autopsied is ok. Imagine if the american Maxim magazine was as fun as the UK version, the censors here would flip.

[Bosunsfate]

If this is true it's really big news. Despite what everyone thinks and what most of the tech blogs have been saying, Apple has never explicitly said what it would do in this regard. This is the first announcement to that effect.


I don't think this is correct. I seem to recall that Steve Jobs was pretty explicit in the original launch of the App Store, which was that Porn would not be allowed.

[jaw04005]

A company like Apple doesn't want the reputation of promoting questionable material (including soft porn, etc). However, they also don't want the impression that they're censoring application developers.

They're damned if they do and damned if they don't. I don't know what the balance is. Being a gatekeeper is hard work.

[Sir Pancakes]

I don't believe this is actually true or "the whole story" in that (without exaggeration) this could literally sink the iPhone as a desirable product if the regional stores and the countries in which the product is on sale don't have any control over the content.

Please tell me you're trolling. That argument makes zero sense. :confused:

no porn apps = iphone sinkage? :rolleyes:

[TheShinyMac]

Clean as a button.:rolleyes: If it were me I would ban the pocket god...:rolleyes:

I have pocket god and I think that the developer is lucky it made it on ,there is no blood yet:eek: and its ment to be a comical app not a shooter or just a violent version of the sims

[thescort]

If you really want to watch porn on your mobile device, why not just pop open safari on your iPhone and visit your favorite site (while on the subway...?).
Here's an even better idea: Wait till you get home and view it on a 30" cinematic display when you can actually make a happy ending.

Get real people, as much as I agree that North America is pretty damn prudish, there is a time and place for nudity and porn (however you wish to define it).

[Prof.]

Are we talkin' penises and vaginas or just bewbz?

[jessica.]

If this is true it's really big news. Despite what everyone thinks and what most of the tech blogs have been saying, Apple has never explicitly said what it would do in this regard. This is the first announcement to that effect.

It could also have a huge backlash since the USA is one of the most backward, prudish countries in terms of what is considered "appropriate" content. For Apple to universally disallow programs and imagery to adults, which is actually considered okay for children in the rest of the world is nothing short of outrageous.

It's also incredibly hypocritical. The USA decides for he rest of the world what is okay and what is not okay?

I don't believe this is actually true or "the whole story" in that (without exaggeration) this could literally sink the iPhone as a desirable product if the regional stores and the countries in which the product is on sale don't have any control over the content.
Yeah we get it, you hate the USA. :rolleyes: No matter what is done here nothing will satisfy you.

Your argument however is silly.

[LethalWolfe]

Why have a category for nudity and not allow porn?
Maybe 'cause nudity does not equal porn. Well, maybe for the really puritanical it does but for the rest of us it does not.


Lethal

[MacDawg]

If this is true it's really big news. Despite what everyone thinks and what most of the tech blogs have been saying, Apple has never explicitly said what it would do in this regard. This is the first announcement to that effect.

It could also have a huge backlash since the USA is one of the most backward, prudish countries in terms of what is considered "appropriate" content. For Apple to universally disallow programs and imagery to adults, which is actually considered okay for children in the rest of the world is nothing short of outrageous.

It's also incredibly hypocritical. The USA decides for he rest of the world what is okay and what is not okay?

I don't believe this is actually true or "the whole story" in that (without exaggeration) this could literally sink the iPhone as a desirable product if the regional stores and the countries in which the product is on sale don't have any control over the content.

Gee, if you are that addicted to porn, just carry a few special pics around in your wallet to tide you over till you get home

Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif

[dagamer34]

If this is true it's really big news. Despite what everyone thinks and what most of the tech blogs have been saying, Apple has never explicitly said what it would do in this regard. This is the first announcement to that effect.

It could also have a huge backlash since the USA is one of the most backward, prudish countries in terms of what is considered "appropriate" content. For Apple to universally disallow programs and imagery to adults, which is actually considered okay for children in the rest of the world is nothing short of outrageous.

It's also incredibly hypocritical. The USA decides for he rest of the world what is okay and what is not okay?

I don't believe this is actually true or "the whole story" in that (without exaggeration) this could literally sink the iPhone as a desirable product if the regional stores and the countries in which the product is on sale don't have any control over the content.

When they released the first beta of the iPhone SDK, they specifically said "no porn or illegal content."

[Queso]

Made by Nipple in California :D

[benwillis0612]

cracking jokes on the autopsy table seems the norm

As long as the victims have a cloth covering their genitals of course

[daxomni]

Porn is like a drug. It's a trap.
So is faux piety.

The reason that there is a rating system that includes categories for nudity is because massive Hollywood conglomerates can still sell simulated sex in the form of movies and episodes. It's only those who attempt to be honest about what they're providing that can't do it. What else would you expect from a society that is so confused and conflicted about adult themes. For all those "Won't somebody please think of the children?!" types feel free to lock down all your devices to the level of your anxiety like any responsible person should have already done. One complaint that at least made sense was that the top lists might become overridden by adult applications, but that's just another example of how hypocritical we are. We acknowledge that these applications would be supremely popular but deride them as fringe interests. Not to mention that the whole issue is easily resolved by making a new category that only rates adult options. Sorry, but this whole mess is just another unfortunate move by Apple to pre-appease the very vocal hypocrites among us. All the truly anti-sex folks probably died out long ago by refusing to procreate. Nearly everyone who's alive today has presumably descended from a gene pool that views sex rather favorably, despite what they may say in public.

[WoFat]

That's such a loser that they just gotta have their personal flavor of smut at arms length on a moments notice to view on their phone. However, I can see how the dregs of society must have something to keep his hand busy when stuck in traffic

[*LTD*]

LOL did people actually think Apple would allow porn?

[iOrlando]

apple is just playing with fire with this topic.

I really dont care if it has age restrictions or parental controls.

We have parental controls on TVs but that doesn't mean we can have all this XXX stuff on normal cable.

There is no reason for apple to start allowing this kind of stuff.

[WestonHarvey1]

What's the point of adult age limits then?

Way to go Apple, dictate your own morality on the rest of the world, because you operate the only application store for your devices.

You do understand that everything sold in the App store is being sold by Apple, right? There are a lot of reasons why a company might not want to sell porn. Believe it or not, even in a progressive and liberal minded company like Apple, it's entirely possible that the CEO and members of the board might be morally opposed to selling pornography. Shareholders don't always like it, either. They don't have to sell things they don't want to sell.

Getting into the porn business adds a permanent sleaze factor that is impossible to shake. Apple doesn't want to be Comcast.

[nick9191]

If you're that addicted to porn that you need to see it whilst on the move, seek help. It's Apple's store, if they don't want porn then there will be no porn. It's not a violation of your rights.

[The Phazer]

Good choice apple. :):apple:

I have to admit, and I am not at all ashamed, that I have watched a lot of porn in my lifetime to know both the pleasures and perils of it.

And I very much like that some places will be kept COMPLETELY free of it, since it's all over the place in every other place you look at, from emails to websites, to pretty much everywhere. As well as the quasi porn stuff that gets passed off as teenager music and mens mags these days.

Thanks for keeping things clean apple.

Yeah, because (by the definition of "porn" that includes this app - ie topless women) I can't go to the iTunes video store and see anyth...OH MY GOD!!!

It's this that makes Apple such stinking hypocrites.

But luckily, we don't need to worry about it, because it's clear from the app submission process that the Apple PR in question is patently making **** up as they go along.

Phazer

[applecultvictim]

If you really want to watch porn on your mobile device, why not just pop open safari on your iPhone and visit your favorite site (while on the subway...?).
Here's an even better idea: Wait till you get home and view it on a 30" cinematic display when you can actually make a happy ending.


Some people can "happy end" in their cars too, so I've heard, hence the added mobility factor coming handy.:cool:

I wouldn't want to be a copper handing them a ticket though!:D

[swingerofbirch]

They don't have to call pornography inappropriate in order to ban it from their store.

I find pornography very boring now anyways.

BTW, back in the days I didn't find it so boring I started a thread on whether Apple should sell pornography (videos) through iTunes:

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=352198

[DinoMachino]

Are we talkin' penises and vaginas or just bewbz?

Boobs man. Simple boobs. Barely porn.

I have to say, I bought the app (yep, I'm a dude and I like some porn) and I'm not exactly sure what the big deal is. It was just boobs. They did kind of sneak the topless pics in, so who knows whether apple knew about the bare boobs before or after, but I'm betting they thought it was maxim Style and not playboy style

[wolfshades]

This is a fascinating discussion. Glad it was posted. "Porn as a trap" is intself an interesting point, as is the fact that so many agree with it. I think it, like almost anything else, can be addictive.

However, I'm not certain we need societal controls to keep us from triggering the trap. Do we?

I really thought the rating system and parental controls and the like would keep the iPhone safe for those who need safety.

Oh and by the way: porn actors generally (but not always) need to be nude. But nudity is in itself not porn.

Guess we need some iBurkas.

[guzhogi]

inappropriate is so subjective

Agreed. What about apps for/about nudists/naturalists? Plus, in some places, it is legal for women to go topless.

[WestonHarvey1]

Sorry, but this whole mess is just another unfortunate move by Apple to pre-appease the very vocal hypocrites among us. All the truly anti-sex folks probably died out long ago by refusing to procreate. Nearly everyone who's alive today has presumably descended from a gene pool that views sex rather favorably, despite what they may say in public.

Why don't you go start your own company that fights hypocrisy and brings porn out into the light, teaching the world about its glorious wonders?

Come on now, fight those anti-sex forces!

[bacaramac]

Couldn't apple just default the rating system to block certain content then force user to set a password or something specifically agreeing to get this type of content? Much like Sirius has playboy channel or something like that. You can call sirius and get it, but they don't advertise it.

This way it doesn't even appear in app store unless you activated it. Just a thougt, I am not sure why you need to download naked pictures through an app, but whatever.

EDIT: I think apples reasoning behind this is to protect people do not wish to see this stuff. Me I don't care either way, but I think my idea above would solve this concern.

[WestonHarvey1]

However, I'm not certain we need societal controls to keep us from triggering the trap. Do we?

I really thought the rating system and parental controls and the like would keep the iPhone safe for those who need safety.

Oh and by the way: porn actors generally (but not always) need to be nude. But nudity is in itself not porn.

Guess we need some iBurkas.

Apple has done nothing to limit anyone's access to pornography. They are simply exercising their freedom to sell the products they wish to sell.

Nobody is forcing you to sell porn, are they? No one is criticizing you for making the choice not to be in the porn business, are they? So why criticize Apple?

[wolfshades]

Agreed. What about apps for/about nudists/naturalists? Plus, in some places, it is legal for women to go topless.


We actually have a law (or a ruling from a court, I forget which) that specifically allows women to go topless here in Ontario Canada. It came about as a result of a court challenge where some woman was complaining that it was OK for men to walk around topless.

Of course, us men have no problem with equal rights on this front. *cough* But, despite our constant encouragement, the ladies just don't seem to want to take advantage of this new freedom of theirs.

Damn it.

[mac jones]

terrible news.

Fist Jackson now this.

when will it end?

[Virgil-TB2]

Yeah we get it, you hate the USA. :rolleyes: No matter what is done here nothing will satisfy you.

Your argument however is silly.Just talking the facts Jessica. It's your response that's full of "hatin."

A part of my point is that the USA is kind of prudish relatively speaking and they got that religion thing getting in the way also, but another aspect is that there are other countries and religions that are even *more* prudish.

Some of the stuff that Apple thinks is "okay" and is on the store now, is offensive to Muslims and Muslim countries for instance. Everybody has different ideas of what's okay or not.

It's hypocritical in the extreme to say that those Muslims are just being "prudish" when they don't want apps where you can see a female in a bikini, and then turn around and say that it's "offensive" to see boobies. These are one and the same thing.

It's pretty much the textbook definition of "hypocrisy."

[wolfshades]

Apple has done nothing to limit anyone's access to pornography. They are simply exercising their freedom to sell the products they wish to sell.

Nobody is forcing you to sell porn, are they? No one is criticizing you for making the choice not to be in the porn business, are they? So why criticize Apple?

Apple can do as they like. I'm not going to say they can't or shouldn't. I just question their logic on it, that's all. Are they trying to protect us from our bad thoughts about our naughty places? Is that it?

[wolfshades]

terrible news.

Fist Jackson now this.

when will it end?

"Fist Jackson"?

That wasn't a typo at all, was it?

...I knew it!....

[applecultvictim]

This is a fascinating discussion. Glad it was posted. "Porn as a trap" is intself an interesting point, as is the fact that so many agree with it. I think it, like almost anything else, can be addictive.

However, I'm not certain we need societal controls to keep us from triggering the trap. Do we?

I feel we really do, I think availability makes matters much, much worse. Take for example the violence explosion in the states with kids getting a gun and killing tens of other kids in one go, just to say a very blatant example. Sex is an instinct of sorts (although instinct is a rather tired term) you can't fill up your room with porn and expect to "behave", we are naturally drawn to it and for a good reason. Hence, like someone wisely said, it's a trap, you can't plant traps all over the place and cross your fingers you dont step on them.

I really believe that ALL vices should be legal, drugs, prostitution, porn, but very very strictly regulated.

Of course the mob that's pocketed 3/4 of the politicians around the world will not like my opinion and don't want to lose their guaranteed profits and hence this backwards hypocritical situation we have know.

But what can you do when these guys have pocketed presidents and prime ministers around the globe and own them?:o

[NinjaHERO]

It's their store and they are welcome to censor what they want. It's an anti freedom move, but a smart business practice.

As long as my safari app keeps getting the P Hub, all is good.

[HyperZboy]

This is one of those stories that just truly brings out the Apple fanboys in this forum. What's so hysterically funny is that if Steve Jobs told half of you to watch porn, bark like a dog, and drink urine, the same people applauding this move would say "Yay Apple!" LOL

But seriously, I can understand people not wanting porn on their iPhone.
But keep in mind, your cable or satellite TV most likely has access to porn, so why not your iPhone?

And just like your cable or satellite TV, your iPhone has Parental Controls now in 3.0 to prevent children from having access.

So how could anyone in their right mind who isn't a total Apple tool/fanboy say this is a good move by Apple?

C'mon, somebody give me a good reason that's not as dumb as all of the ones posted so far.......

[Virgil-TB2]

Please tell me you're trolling. That argument makes zero sense. :confused:

no porn apps = iphone sinkage? :rolleyes:No.

No control over content equals iPhone sinking.

There are regional stores that *should* operate under the general mores of the country in which they are located. There are also ample content controls now.

In that situation, for Apple to say that all content decisions are controlled by Apple HQ in the USA, based on the USA's idea of what's morally right or wrong is a disaster waiting to happen.

Previously, people were assuming it was the lack of parental controls that was at issue, but is this is true, it's saying that despite those controls, Apple will still tell you what you are allowed to view or publish. At minimum, the people in Europe are not going to take that for very long because it's ridiculous.

Turn it around and imagine that Apple is a European company, and they decide that "violence" in games is an immoral issue and they simply won't allow it. How do you think the average US citizen would react to that?

It's total hypocrisy (if true.)

[superwesman]

Apple's rating system does seem to allow for "nudity" specifically.

People aren't looking at the big picture here. The ratings aren't just for apps. They are also used for movie rentals which are much more likely to contain nudity. The presence of the word "nudity" in a rating description does not have any bearing on their application rejection policies.

[displaced]

I'm slightly surprised in that I thought the ratings system would allow fine control by the user over what was accessible.

Content ratings and a filtering method is the only 'just' answer to this as far as I can see. It's the only way that users and producers are free of Apple's 'nebulous' standards. The recent example of the eReader app being banned because the Kama Sutra was accessible illustrates the crux of the problem: one man's porn is another man's art.

Apple have left themselves in an awkward position. They now have to evaluate the context of each possibly-adult app and somehow accept/reject based on that context. Most countries have some sort of obscene publications statute – it would be much more appropriate for Apple to only ban apps based on those statutes and leave everything else up to the preferences of the user (or, if a minor, the user's parents/guardians). That way, apps could be evaluated based on laws and the massive body of jurisprudence which has evolved around those laws. Ideally those laws are the product of the consensus of each nation's people and culture – a standard which is (for me) infinitely preferable to what someone in Cupertino decides I should be looking at.

[ppilone]

Nearly everyone who's alive today has presumably descended from a gene pool that views sex rather favorably, despite what they may say in public.

Wow - most generalized statement in awhile? I'm proud of my gene pool, which is continuing on favorably - but I don't think my grandmom would be to happy sifting through the porn apps on iTunes.

[NinjaHERO]

C'mon, somebody give me a good reason that's not as dumb as all of the ones posted so far.......

Apple's target demographic is family friendly. The added business of porn would not compare to the loss of family business they depend on. That's just my opinion.

[xerenthar]

sheer idiocy

[Queso]

With some of the comments on this thread I'm beginning to seriously worry about people's mental states. This isn't hard core porn being discussed, it's a few pictures of topless girls.

[casik]

GOOD thats what I like to see...

I think it's simple...

Lusting after a fully clothed woman, or lusting after a naked woman (Porn or Art) is still degrading and inappropraite. Lust's excitement is the reason for such high divorce rates. Porn or Nudity isn't the addiction. Lust is. There is no difference between looking at a naked woman lustfully or looking at a fully dressed woman lustfuly.

Good job Apple... I was getting a little worried.

[polaris20]

This kind of stuff always cracks me up. Showing women in bikinis posing provocatively and artistic nudity always seems to terrify Americans, while showing killing and mayhem and doctors picking through human remains while cracking jokes on the autopsy table seems the norm (just turn the tv on any channel in prime time). Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy violence and mayhem probably a little more than most folks (USMC Force Recon 8 years), but enough already.

Well said.

I'm glad I can still download all the games featuring killing on my iPod Touch. So much more wholesome than a girl in a bikini!

[freediverdude]

I don't get it. Why have the rating system then? All Apple has to do is make a separate adult section, with the disclaimer "We aren't responsible for the content in this section. The content is provided by 3rd parties." And make it so that section does not appear in the app store if the parental controls are turned on.

It's not like you can't just open safari and do a quick porn search in the car anyway.

[jaw04005]

The "Porn App" story has gotten huge over the past few days. It's been one of the lead links on CNN's page for awhile now, and I'm sure it's all over every tech blog and site on the Internet.

Now I guess we could debate if topless photographs of women is considered porn.

Steve Jobs specifically pointed out that Apple wouldn't distribute apps with porn at the unveiling of the App Store in March of 2008.

Here's the clip directly from the keynote:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xo9cKe_Fch8#t=4m36s

So, this shouldn't be a surprise to anyone.

[Takeo]

What is this "porn is a trap" BS? Exercise is a trap. Food is a trap. Religion is a trap. It's all one big trap. I have no control and no free will. Help me! I'm trapped! BS.

[WestonHarvey1]

Apple can do as they like. I'm not going to say they can't or shouldn't. I just question their logic on it, that's all. Are they trying to protect us from our bad thoughts about our naughty places? Is that it?

No. No, they don't want to sell pornography. They don't want it on their consciences and they don't want it on their corporate image. They don't care what you do.

[Goona]

This is one of those stories that just truly brings out the Apple fanboys in this forum. What's so hysterically funny is that if Steve Jobs told half of you to watch porn, bark like a dog, and drink urine, the same people applauding this move would say "Yay Apple!" LOL

But seriously, I can understand people not wanting porn on their iPhone.
But keep in mind, your cable or satellite TV most likely has access to porn, so why not your iPhone?

And just like your cable or satellite TV, your iPhone has Parental Controls now in 3.0 to prevent children from having access.

So how could anyone in their right mind who isn't a total Apple tool/fanboy say this is a good move by Apple?

C'mon, somebody give me a good reason that's not as dumb as all of the ones posted so far.......Damn dude there are other ways to access porn on your iphone, it ain't that serious.

[Treq]

I don't get it. There wasn't any porn. The "Hottest Girls" app only had women in bikinis with a few topless pics mixed in. Where is the porn?

[lostngone]

apple is just playing with fire with this topic.

I really dont care if it has age restrictions or parental controls.

We have parental controls on TVs but that doesn't mean we can have all this XXX stuff on normal cable.

There is no reason for apple to start allowing this kind of stuff.

Why can't we have porn on cable? If you don't like it don't watch it or for that matter don't even pay for cable,

You have the tools to block it(Vchip, cable box blocks), why are you pushing your views of morality on everyone else???

If the iPhone can restrict it then why not allow it?

[WestonHarvey1]

It's their store and they are welcome to censor what they want. It's an anti freedom move, but a smart business practice.

As long as my safari app keeps getting the P Hub, all is good.

How is it an anti-freedom move, again, for them to exercise THEIR FREEDOM to decide what they will sell? Someone please explain this to me because I'm having a lot of trouble getting it.

[danielwsmithee]

Good for Apple!

[wolfshades]

GOOD thats what I like to see...

I think it's simple...

Lusting after a fully clothed woman, or lusting after a naked woman (Porn or Art) is still degrading and inappropraite. Lust's excitement is the reason for such high divorce rates. Porn or Nudity isn't the addiction. Lust is. There is no difference between looking at a naked woman lustfully or looking at a fully dressed woman lustfuly.

Good job Apple... I was getting a little worried.

If you weren't so patently serious about your statement, I'd mistake you for a troll. We are human beings with sexual impulses (a.k.a. lustful appetites). If you didn't lust after a fully clothed or naked woman (say, your wife or girlfriend) we'd cease to exist and the rats would take over. It sounds as if you're hoping a supreme being is looking with favour on your comments, so let me offer up something for you to think about. If a supreme being exists, there's a good chance he created us to have lust for each other. I'm pretty sure he isn't shocked when we go spank the monkey in our rooms too.

...and speaking of spanking the monkey..... *glares down at evil monkey, clearly in need of some discipline*

[polaris20]

Yeah we get it, you hate the USA. :rolleyes: No matter what is done here nothing will satisfy you.

Your argument however is silly.

His argument is far from silly, and I'm sure he doesn't hate the US. The US (nor Apple) shouldn't be able to deem what is morally acceptable and not. That's up to the person/parent of person, not the government or company.

In Europe, women walk around without a top on at the beach. Here, it's an outrageous concept. How would you interpret that as anything but prudish?

[mrkgoo]

Note, nudity does not equal porn.

[displaced]

There is no difference between looking at a naked woman lustfully or looking at a fully dressed woman lustfuly.

Good job Apple... I was getting a little worried.

Poppycock.

(well, judging by the way this thread is going, perhaps I should use a less risqué-sounding exclamation – balderdash, for instance).

I think my girlfriend would be rather disappointed if I completely removed opportunities to feel lustful from my life. And I dare say she'd say the same.

Lust is part of the human condition – it should be revelled in, not used as an excuse for being an adulterer.

[polaris20]

Note, nudity does not equal porn.

Unfortunately in the US it is often interpreted as such. For example, Playboy features naked women in it. To me, it's not offensive, however to others it's "pornography exploiting women and their bodies". Nevermind that no one forced them to do it, and they were paid well to do nothing but stand in front of a camera naked.

[Mr. B]

... are people seriously saying that *lust* is bad?

hate to say it (not really though), but without some good old fashioned lust most of us wouldn't exist.

[holden15]

Conan joked about this on the Tonight Show saying "You no longer have to have two separate devices for watching porn."

[WestonHarvey1]

I'm thinking a lot of people here (especially the European posters) do not really understand the American idea of freedom.

Freedom means you get to choose what to do. You get to choose what to buy and what to sell. You get to choose how to run your company. If you don't like something, you don't have to do it. No one can make you.

I'm sure in some places in the world, a government passing a law forcing McDonalds to include pornography in every Happy Meal in order to foster "sex-positive" ideas in children would go over well and be seen as a win for "freedom".

But that's not how it works here. I hope this lesson has been helpful.

[HyperZboy]

Apple has done nothing to limit anyone's access to pornography. They are simply exercising their freedom to sell the products they wish to sell.

Nobody is forcing you to sell porn, are they? No one is criticizing you for making the choice not to be in the porn business, are they? So why criticize Apple?

If Apple allowed other methods to put apps on the phone, your argument would make sense.

However, Apple does not, so that ruins your argument and proves it is clearly just a matter of CENSORSHIP.
You are not just buying an app from Apple, you are buying it through Apple's means of distribution, the same way Comcast In Demand allows you to buy adult content.

I think Apple has made a terrible decision here.
It was PORN after all that decided the battle of VHS over BETA remember?

I don't think this decision will be as big a deal in the U.S., but I bet there's a huge backlash in less prudish countries in Europe. In fact, I think most Europeans will find this decision to restrict "booby pics" as laughably dumb on Apple's part.

Now we return you to your regularly scheduled Apple Fanboy YAYfest........
( Pardon the interruption :D )

[thejadedmonkey]

Ahh, censorship in the morning... gotta love it.

Seriously, if I, as an adult, are allowed to listen to explicit e-books, podcasts, music, and videos, all on my iPhone, why is an application so much worse?

Seriously, if I can go to Wal*Mart and buy a gun and go shoot a deer, which I then cook and eat for dinner, why aren't I allowed to buy a porn application too?

[wolfshades]

If Apple allowed other methods to put apps on the phone, your argument would make sense.

However, Apple does not, so that ruins your argument and proves it is clearly just a matter of CENSORSHIP.
You are not just buying an app from Apple, you are buying it through Apple's means of distribution, the same way Comcast In Demand allows you to buy adult content.

I think Apple has made a terrible decision here.
It was PORN after all that decided the battle of VHS over BETA remember?

I don't think this decision will be as big a deal in the U.S., but I bet there's a huge backlash in less prudish countries in Europe. In fact, I think most Europeans will find this decision to restrict "booby pics" as laughably dumb on Apple's part.

Now we return you to your regularly scheduled Apple Fanboy YAYfest........
( Pardon the interruption :D )

I'm an Apple fanboi (it's fanboi by the way, not fanboy) and I approve this message.

:D

Seriously though: though I disagree with their decision, I'm not sure it's that big a deal. Viewing naughty bits on the iPhone is a bit of a letdown, even in Safari (*cough* so I'm told *cough*). I'd rather see it on my 24" iMac.

Or better still on my GIGANTIC HD Plasma TV with sensuous surround sound. The pink hues are ever so much more awesome.

[gkarris]

I think that was a good move by apple, keepin the app store clean:D

LOL...

And meanwhile, you can get "The Heartbreak Kid" (saw, and yes, by definition, it has porn, as R-rated comedies are really now X) and "Zack and Miri Make Porn" (didn't see as after that other movie - no more R-rated comedies for me) at the iTunes Store.... :eek:

[WestonHarvey1]

If Apple allowed other methods to put apps on the phone, your argument would make sense.

However, Apple does not, so that ruins your argument and proves it is clearly just a matter of CENSORSHIP.

Nope, not ruined. Barring any government antitrust intervention, Apple can also choose how their device runs third party software. Totally separate issue.

You are not just buying an app from Apple, you are buying it through Apple's means of distribution, the same way Comcast In Demand allows you to buy adult content.

Nope, Apple really is selling the apps. When you buy my app, you buy it from Apple. You give them your money and they bank it. Apple eventually writes me a check for my cut.

Now we return you to your regularly scheduled Apple Fanboy YAYfest........
( Pardon the interruption :D )

Not an Apple fanboy. I'm a freedom fanboy.

[lamadude]

I'm thinking a lot of people here (especially the European posters) do not really understand the American idea of freedom.

Freedom means you get to choose what to do. You get to choose what to buy and what to sell. You get to choose how to run your company. If you don't like something, you don't have to do it. No one can make you.

I'm sure in some places in the world, a government passing a law forcing McDonalds to include pornography in every Happy Meal in order to foster "sex-positive" ideas in children would go over well and be seen as a win for "freedom"
But that's not how it works here. I hope this lesson has been helpful.

Wow, that's ridiculous. Freedom in Europe is seen as pretty much the same thing as freedom in the US. Europe is not some communist place where the governement decides what you can do, it's based on the same freedom and capitalism as the US. And what about the personal freedom to watch porn on your iphone? The app developpers do NOT get to choose wat they sell and the customers can't chose what they buy because of apple insisting on checking every app. I have no problem with that but it's not "freedom" for anyone but apple.

The big difference is that Europe would sooner censor a movie for violence than for porn and the US the other way around.

[masse]

flash for iphone more important.


free porn for all

[Jason Lee]

Steve can do whatever he wants with his company, but whether you agree or disagree with his position, you have to understand that this is censorship.

Places like Barnes and Noble and FYE sell adult material, so how is the App Store any different? I mean, I don't think "adult" apps should be displayed next to Super Monkey Ball, any more than LOLITA should be in the childrens' section.

[rockosmodurnlif]

(.)(.)

Tits! OMG! Censor!

[tgildred]

this comment is in line with extremist muslims who claim women must cover themselves in order not to get raped.
Really??


It could also have a huge backlash since the USA is one of the most backward, prudish countries in terms of what is considered "appropriate" content.
Really????

[displaced]

I'm thinking a lot of people here (especially the European posters) do not really understand the American idea of freedom.

Freedom means you get to choose what to do. You get to choose what to buy and what to sell. You get to choose how to run your company. If you don't like something, you don't have to do it. No one can make you.

I'm sure in some places in the world, a government passing a law forcing McDonalds to include pornography in every Happy Meal in order to foster "sex-positive" ideas in children would go over well and be seen as a win for "freedom".

But that's not how it works here. I hope this lesson has been helpful.

Hey, I wasn't demanding anything from Apple. Like you say, they are free to run their business however they see fit (just like businesses are in Europe - your porno-Happy Meal jibe is patently ridiculous and shows an equally off-base view of Europe as that which you suggest Europeans may have of the USA).

My suggestion that Apple simply adheres to statute and jurisprudence was intended to actually ease the burden of app approvals and provide a solid standard to which developers can refer and adhere.

Stating up-front that illegal material is not allowed should be the most logical and straighforwad approach. Other content would simply be flagged so that they can be filtered out by each user's personal preference. Simple.

By saying that both illegal material and (otherwise perfectly legal) porn would be disallowed seems like an ill-advised move into the murky world of arbitrary rule-making - the end result being ill-defined and randomly-applied rules. Not good for producers, consumers, or Apple themselves, since they're placing themselves as the defender of rules which they themselves cannot fully express.

[aristotle]

that's so progressive of you, apple. :rolleyes:

1. this comment is in line with extremist muslims who claim women must cover themselves in order not to get raped. be aware that most of us have what's known as "self control".
2. Mobile Safari is great for porn searches!
Wow. The irony. Porn is most prevalent in the most repressed countries (ie. English speaking countries).

To put in terms that you might understand, countries where nudity is considered dirty has the largest market for porn.

Being a supporter of porn does not make you progressive but rather a person who does not value women at all. Porn causes men to objectify women rather.

In some other cultures, nudity is not seen as lewd but rather a natural state. Do you shower with your clothes on?

I have to laugh at people who are big supporters of porn but insist on wearing clothes while in a Sauna. I guess they just like to watch. :rolleyes:

[WestonHarvey1]

Wow, that's ridiculous. Freedom in Europe is seen as pretty much the same thing as freedom in the US. Europe is not some communist place where the governement decides what you can do, it's based on the same freedom and capitalism as the US. And what about the personal freedom to watch porn on your iphone? The app developpers do NOT get to choose wat they sell and the customers can't chose what they buy because of apple insisting on checking every app. I have no problem with that but it's not "freedom" for anyone but apple.

The big difference is that Europe would sooner censor a movie for violence than for porn and the US the other way around.

Not "freedom" for anyone but Apple?

If you can't even see what you just said and how it shows the difference between our nations I don't know what else I can say.

[Sambo110]

Thank god. I hope they let in a bit more "mature" games, but porn could be really bad for the iPhone and iPod Touch. How many parents would buy an iPod where you could download porn apps.

[sbrhwkp3]

Fine with me... there are plenty of free porn sites optimized for iPhone.. :p

[Queso]

LOL. This is getting funny. Let's all wrap ourselves up in flags and go on about how good we are :D :D

[aristotle]

I'm thinking a lot of people here (especially the European posters) do not really understand the American idea of freedom.

Freedom means you get to choose what to do. You get to choose what to buy and what to sell. You get to choose how to run your company. If you don't like something, you don't have to do it. No one can make you.

I'm sure in some places in the world, a government passing a law forcing McDonalds to include pornography in every Happy Meal in order to foster "sex-positive" ideas in children would go over well and be seen as a win for "freedom".

But that's not how it works here. I hope this lesson has been helpful.
You really don't get it do you? You seem to think that freedom is something America invented. Porn is not an example of freedom but rather an artifact of a sexually repressed society. It is a self destructive outlet for sexual interest which leads ultimately towards shame, self-destructive behavior and objectification of the gender in question. It is really no different than alcoholism, drug use, glue sniffing or over eating. People try to console their loneliness with pictures of strangers instead of reaching out to people in the real world.

[NinjaHERO]

How is it an anti-freedom move, again, for them to exercise THEIR FREEDOM to decide what they will sell? Someone please explain this to me because I'm having a lot of trouble getting it.

Censorship, no matter the reason, is anti-freedom of information. Hopefully that explains things for you.

And I clearly said it's their store and they have every right to censor.

[corinhorn]

With some of the comments on this thread I'm beginning to seriously worry about people's mental states. This isn't hard core porn being discussed, it's a few pictures of topless girls.

I don't get it. There wasn't any porn. The "Hottest Girls" app only had women in bikinis with a few topless pics mixed in. Where is the porn?From Apple's viewpoint, they had to draw the line somewhere. Once they allow nips, it becomes a slippery slope. If they allow a nipple, why not a few pubes, and if they allow that, why not carpet eating?

Apple has the freedom to regulate the apps anyway they want. They decided to draw the line at boobies. Get over it. They aren't forcing their values on anyone, they are exercising their freedom—at least until the lovely court system legislates against it.

[Sparrows]

Again, how is okay to sell sexually explicit music, movies with nudity and audio books with sex scenes but it's not okay to sell an app with it? Does the Taliban run the app censorship department? ;)

This is hypocrisy at it's worst. Please Apple, could you please define what is considered 'porn'?
Is a woman posing topless porn?
Is a painting of a topless woman porn?
Is a text description of a fully nude woman porn?
Is an audio recording of a woman moaning suggestively porn?
Is a woman in a tiny bikini porn?

It's a fact of life that people have sex. If you are so messed up that sex has somehow become filth for you maybe you should worry less about what is being sold on the Apple App Store and worry more about your own mental health.

[PBUser167]

Why would anyone buy an application for porn?

Just dump all of your porn in iTunes (pictures and videos) and sync it to your iPhone / iPod.

Need to spank your monkey? There's an app for that! :cool:

[HyperZboy]

Ahh, censorship in the morning... gotta love it.

Seriously, if I, as an adult, are allowed to listen to explicit e-books, podcasts, music, and videos, all on my iPhone, why is an application so much worse?

Seriously, if I can go to Wal*Mart and buy a gun and go shoot a deer, which I then cook and eat for dinner, why aren't I allowed to buy a porn application too?

Thank you, I think you just summed up my feelings completely on this and the reasons why it's a mistake by Apple.

It's censorship, plain and simple, nothing more.

And I noticed no one has tackled my VHS vs BETA format war and the impact of PORN in it. Few people remember that the PORN industry settled on VHS as its only format of distribution and the Sony created BETA format quickly faded after that. Porn is widely considered to be the reason for the downfall of BETA because most video stores had twice as many titles in VHS format when you added in all the Porn on VHS, therefor VHS got favorable placement near the front of most video rental stores and was more popular with consumers.

I realize its not a perfect analogy & yes there were other factors, but Apple better be careful.
This is a golden opportunity for competitors and I bet, knowing history, they take advantage of it.
We shall see.

[WestonHarvey1]

You really don't get it do you? You seem to think that freedom is something America invented. Porn is not an example of freedom but rather an artifact of a sexually repressed society. It is a self destructive outlet for sexual interest which leads ultimately towards shame, self-destructive behavior and objectification of the gender in question. It is really no different than alcoholism, drug use, glue sniffing or over eating. People try to console their loneliness with pictures of strangers instead of reaching out to people in the real world.

I'm not even talking about porn. I have removed porn from the equation and replaced it with X (not XXX, just X, like in algebra). The second someone says that a person or company should be forced to sell X, or that they're against freedom because they don't want to sell X, that's where I stop.

For all you know, I'm a huge porn monger with fat stacks of magazines and DVDs all over my house. It would not change the fact that I love freedom more than I hate Apple's decision not to become porn peddlers.

[quagmire]

Although I agree that Apple has the right to decide what to sell in the app store, the concept of boobs=porn is ridiculous. For freaking sake, boobs is a reproduction organ turned sexual by humans( hey don't get me wrong I love them :D ). What people need to learn is that porn is doing something sexually explicit. Posing naked is not doing something sexually explicit. So it isn't porn.

[casik]

BAH it is happening already!

People are so confused about what lust actually is that they think when they are turned on by there wife or something that they are lusting after them!

Lust is not just a sexual desire. Lust is wanting what is not rightfully yours.

If you are married and you are attracted to your wife, it isn't lust!

Lust is a desire that is never satisfied.

It is bizzare to me how much a sexual appetite is no longer something that is special or sacred, but something that is selfish and a "need" that must be fulfilled like we are dogs or something.

Yes the world would still procreate, but it would be out of a intimacy brought on by love and sexual desire. Not a Lust for every woman who walks by with a hot face and nice body.

I realize this is very idealistic and does come from the unheard of concept as sexuality being sacred, so spare me the "religious" comments.

Lust is what makes a man leave his wife. Wanting something he doesn't have.

Lust is what creates porn. A desire for sexuality without conesequence.

I am glad none the less that Apple realizes that they take a cut of the App profit and isn't in the business of selling sexuality.

Unless you are talking about their sexy products... lol

[corinhorn]

How many parents would buy an iPod where you could download porn apps.Apparently, lots of European parents.

[Queso]

From Apple's viewpoint, they had to draw the line somewhere. Once they allow nips, it becomes a slippery slope. If they allow a nipple, why not a few pubes, and if they allow that, why not carpet eating?

Apple has the freedom to regulate the apps anyway they want. They decided to draw the line at boobies. Get over it. They aren't forcing their values on anyone, they are exercising their freedom—at least until the lovely court system legislates against it.
My comment wasn't directed at Apple. As has been repeatedly pointed out, they are free to sell what they choose. My comment was on the overreaction some in this thread seem to have towards topless nudity, especially all that "Porn is a trap" nonsense. Why are so many people scared of the sight of a nipple? It's not even genitalia :p

[Stewie]

This is so stupid. I can listen to inappropriate content on albums I buy in the iTunes store. I can rent/buy movies with inappropriate content from iTunes store. god knows I can view stuff that is way beyond inappropriate on mobile safari. Why shouldn't I be able to buy the same software from the iTunes store? I am an adult and should be able to buy and view what I want without apple telling me I can't.

But what about the kids you might say? What about them. They can surf to youporn on even a google search will bring up anything worse then what may sneak through in the app store. If you are that concerned, don't let the kids use the iphone, they can get on their computer and view.

Apple needs to be less controlling. They need to stop censoring apps just because they can.

[fishballer]

forget porn.

can we get some gambling apps ?!?!?
i'm sick and tired of using mobile safari to access gambling sites!!!!

[WestonHarvey1]

A freedom fanboy only for the companies

No, for everyone. Everyone equally. Consumers have no power to force a company to give them a product they want. They have influence. They can express their concerns and they can vote with their dollars or euros. But I can no more force Apple to sell porn, a front facing camera, or a PowerBook G5 than they can force you to get a haircut.

[3NV7]

And yet they'll promote "Gay month" or somesuch on iTunes and the apple.com start page. :confused:

[know-it-all5]

I don't really have a problem with this decision. My question is just, why bother having nudity and strong sexual content as part of the 17+ rating, if it wouldn't ever be allowed. All that app had was nudity, not pornography, so why wouldn't it be allowed? I am a developer, that had to fill out that rating sheet for my applications, and I guess I am at a loss on what Apple will and won't allow. Has anybody, developer or not, got ahold of anyone at Apple to ask what their terms "really" are?

[swissmann]

The right for freedom.

Apple has the freedom to censor or not censor the app store. Why should they have to forfeit their right to freedom so that we can have the freedom of using the iPhone for porn?

If you need/want porn and you feel the iPhone doesn't provide that - use something else.

Apple has the right of freedom in many other things like choosing not to offer Blu-ray support for example. I can't force Apple to support it but I may choose to buy something that does offer it.

Please don't cry out for freedom when it means that someone else must forfeit their freedom.

(By the way I support Apple's decision on this.)

[corinhorn]

It's a fact of life that people have sex. If you are so messed up that sex has somehow become filth for you maybe you should worry less about what is being sold on the Apple App Store and worry more about your own mental health.I love sex, but don't love porn. The two are not equal. Porn feeds lustful appetites that are never quenched. Sex is an act of love and commitment.

[quagmire]

No, for everyone. Everyone equally. Consumers have no power to force a company to give them a product they want. They have influence. They can express their concerns and they can vote with their dollars or euros. But I can no more force Apple to sell porn, a front facing camera, or a PowerBook G5 than they can force you to get a haircut.

Man that was fast. :D I deleted your quote maybe about 30 seconds after posting. :) Although I did see you chose to edit out the :p smilie that indicated I was being sarcastic.

[winterspan]

This is another idiotic move in Apple's directionless App store policies...
Now that it has controls on the device, all they have to do is simply place all "adult" content into an "adult" section on the iTunes App store that is not accessible by devices with the appropriate controls set

The application in question was as far from "porn" as possible. it was a photo gallery of topless woman. The only reason Apple responded to this so quickly is they know a certain minority in the United States especially would immediately cause a huge PR nightmare. I'm sick of the conservative religious zealots in America trying to force their false "morals" on the rest of society with constantly pushing censorship of adult content ! I'm not even interested in porn, but I am interested in the principle of individual liberty and keeping the government and a noisy minority out of personal decisions.

[WestonHarvey1]

The right for freedom.

Apple has the freedom to censor or not censor the app store. Why should they have to forfeit their right to freedom so that we can have the freedom of using the iPhone for porn?

If you need/want porn and you feel the iPhone doesn't provide that - use something else.

Apple has the right of freedom in many other things like choosing not to offer Blu-ray support for example. I can't force Apple to support it but I may choose to buy something that does offer it.

Please don't cry out for freedom when it means that someone else must forfeit their freedom.

(By the way I support Apple's decision on this.)

Glad someone else gets it. I was feeling very alone.

[Nym]

The main point here should be:

The app in question was not featuring porn, it was just pictures of top-less women. Is that really something to be shocked? Breasts?!

(sorry for mentioning again but people are talking like the app was iBestiality which it clearly wasn't)

However, I think this has got nothing to do with being "prude". I think that this has to do with Apple being afraid of losing their "brand" image.

One of Apple's main pillars of success is the name and culture associated with their brand and they are reluctant on the possibility that pornographic material could taint it.

I seriously don't agree with their decision but this is Apple we're talking about, what were you expecting? They basically like to control everything that carries their logo. :D

[WestonHarvey1]

Man that was fast. :D I deleted your quote maybe about 30 seconds after posting. :) Although I did see you chose to edit out the :p smilie that indicated I was being sarcastic.

Sorry.. tried to Quote, but the auto quote only picked up the first block and I tried to cut and paste the other bit from the rendered message and it didn't pick up the graphic.

[mr.steevo]

I don't really have a problem with this decision. My question is just, why bother having nudity and strong sexual content as part of the 17+ rating, if it wouldn't ever be allowed. All that app had was nudity, not pornography, so why wouldn't it be allowed? I am a developer, that had to fill out that rating sheet for my applications, and I guess I am at a loss on what Apple will and won't allow. Has anybody, developer or not, got ahold of anyone at Apple to ask what their terms "really" are?

Exactly.

Too many mixed messages with the App Store.

s.

[quagmire]

Sorry.. tried to Quote, but the auto quote only picked up the first block and I tried to cut and paste the other bit from the rendered message and it didn't pick up the graphic.

No problem. :) I agree with you that it is Apple's right to decide what to sell on there App store. Just arguing over that boobs does not equal porn( and full nudity doesn't equal porn either). :D

[akutz]

I don't really care if the app is there or not. My question is simply this: What is the point of Content Control based on Ratings if not to allow for sex, violence, adult themed applications? Just curious.

[corinhorn]

They basically like to control everything that carries their logo. :D

What's wrong with that? They want to protect their own business. I think everyone would.

[synth3tik]

Wow. There is some really stupid people out their.

So far just what I can remember

Apple hates America
Apple hates freedoms
The Taliban works in the approval department
and someone thinks gay pride and porn are the same thing.

No wonder so many of you are pissed at Apple about this, so many of you are making no sense.

[WestonHarvey1]

Censorship, no matter the reason, is anti-freedom of information. Hopefully that explains things for you.

And I clearly said it's their store and they have every right to censor.

If you put a bumper sticker with a political viewpoint on your car, and don't also put a sticker with an opposing view on it, is that censorship? Is that anti-freedom of information?

[fat phil]

Apple's an American company with American prudishness. Conker's Bad Fur Day and GTA were made in the UK for good reason...

15-20 years ago the UK wasn't too different. We used to laugh at all the rude european commercials on Tarrant TV, but today we're even worse than some of those. Watershed? What's that?

My wife's American and she finds UK TV a constant source of amusement. Even House is censored outside "wee hours" in the States...:p

Oh, do we want porn on the App Store? Question is, does anyone need it? Use Safari...porn made the web what it is today after all....

[Guru74]

I'm just amazed how so many (US) Americans are afraid of nudity and the human body.

I think that was a good move by apple, keepin the app store clean:D
Clean with dozens of fart apps. Great.

Porn is like a drug. It's a trap.
If it's demonized and everybody is missinformed, it can be. If you're able do distinguish (nudity≠porn, drugs≠drugs), it's a whole other story.

Fist Jackson
THAT would be porn...

[diamond.g]

The main point here should be:

The app in question was not featuring porn, it was just pictures of top-less women. Is that really something to be shocked? Breasts?!

(sorry for mentioning again but people are talking like the app was iBestiality which it clearly wasn't)

However, I think this has got nothing to do with being "prude". I think that this has to do with Apple being afraid of losing their "brand" image.

One of Apple's main pillars of success is the name and culture associated with their brand and they are reluctant on the possibility that pornographic material could taint it.

I seriously don't agree with their decision but this is Apple we're talking about, what were you expecting? They basically like to control everything that carries their logo. :D

I then have to question, why block the applications yet not block the movies and tv shows that also show nudity?

[wolfshades]

I then have to question, why block the applications yet not block the movies and tv shows that also show nudity?

You can only watch a movie. An app might allow you to interact with all of those virtual boobies and punanis. Can't have that.

Just a guess though.

[chr1s60]

I can completely understand Apple not distributing hardcore pornography. However, in the situation that this all came from I do not think topless pictures is really that big of a deal, especially when you can buy an R rated movie in iTunes that contains sex scenes and nudity. Not to mention the fact that the phone still has Safari and that can be directed towards almost any porn site on the internet.

In the way the media has been looking at this it means your kid can't buy an inappropriate application with nudity, but they can feel free to download as many movies as they want that contain nudity, sex, and drug use. Hmmm.

[bigjohn]

inappropriate is so subjective

Pornography is subjective... especially when you contend that the community is the Bay Area and that's one of the most liberal areas of the country.

What is objective however is that Apple won't give me a refund for this app.
$1.99 down the tubes and not one "Hottest Girl". I should write an app that promises something and doesn't deliver.

[knewsom]

interesting how the "sexiest phone on the market" has no t¡ts.

I'm appalled that you can buy "DOOM" on the iphone, and many other violent and bloody games that glorify KILLING people, but a nice set of bare funbags has everyone's pantyhose in a knot. Freakin' rediculous.

[WestonHarvey1]

I should write an app that promises something and doesn't deliver.

I hear it is a lucrative business :)

[guzhogi]

We actually have a law (or a ruling from a court, I forget which) that specifically allows women to go topless here in Ontario Canada. It came about as a result of a court challenge where some woman was complaining that it was OK for men to walk around topless.

Of course, us men have no problem with equal rights on this front. *cough* But, despite our constant encouragement, the ladies just don't seem to want to take advantage of this new freedom of theirs.

Damn it.

Doesn't the Naked News (nakednews.com) film in Ontario?

[wolfshades]

Doesn't the Naked News (nakednews.com) film in Ontario?

It was filmed here at one time. Don't know where they do it now.

[NinjaHERO]

If you put a bumper sticker with a political viewpoint on your car, and don't also put a sticker with an opposing view on it, is that censorship? Is that anti-freedom of information?

Wow. Really? Do you not know what censorship means?

Forcing someone to put a bumper sticker on a car is nothing like forbidding them from putting on a sticker.

You appear to be trying to use my posts out of context so you can prove a point. Please read my posts before you quote them.:D

[JrMac]

I'm sure Apple rejected this app in order to maintain its corporate image.
The funny thing is that violence isn't as frowned upon. This isn't just an Apple thing, but an American viewpoint. I think it's interesting that sexuality is treated as it is in America. The Puritan roots are showing.

[djdarlek]

this could easily be solved. Why doesn't Apple make it so that the adult filter is on by default and has to be turned off in the settings for those who wish to view porn.

I think they are just feeling under pressure about the subject. They have many times in the past contradicted themselves.

'We are never going to Intel' etc..

[WestonHarvey1]

Forcing someone to put a bumper sticker on a car is nothing like forbidding them from putting on a sticker.

You own and control your car. If you started a business where you promised to drive around with a paid message on your car, you'd be allowed to refuse service if you didn't like a message someone wanted to pay you to put on your car.

[skellener]

Pretty silly if you ask me. There are restrictions in place in iTunes, on the iPod and iPhone and explicit tags on content. Let's face it - all of that stuff is there simply because of users under the age of 18. So if there are ratings and parental controls already in place...why ban apps at all? The tools are there to "keep the children safe".

Easiest solution - anything goes on the app store, but you must be 18 years old to purchase an iPhone or iPod touch. ;)


/sarcasm

[Stella]

Apple doesn't restrict such content on iTunes, why would it restrict such content on iPhone.

Double standards.

Apple - the user can decide for themselves, they don't require nannying.

[i.mac]

What's the point of adult age limits then?


certainly not porn.

Porn in the app store is accessible to children. If you do not have children, get one and you'll see why this is inappropriate. If you have children, you can create an app yourself and show it to whomever...


Way to go Apple, dictate your own morality on the rest of the world, because you operate the only application store for your devices.

You are very much free to do what you want. It seems that you may want to impose your version of morality on the app store.

[tenguy]

It is nice to see a corporation take the high road. The folks who want porn can find plenty of places to go besides the App Store. When WalMart refused to carry CD's with lewd lyrics, they were also castigated for "censorship". Our culture already has way too much pollution as it is & to preserve some places for just clean stuff is laudable.

[jaw04005]

Even House is censored outside "wee hours" in the States...:p

WHAT?!? I've never noticed. TBS edits House episodes to fit their time slots, but when it airs first-run on Fox it's the full episode.

[HyperZboy]

BAH it is happening already!

People are so confused about what lust actually is that they think when they are turned on by there wife or something that they are lusting after them!

Lust is not just a sexual desire. Lust is wanting what is not rightfully yours.

If you are married and you are attracted to your wife, it isn't lust!

Lust is a desire that is never satisfied.

It is bizzare to me how much a sexual appetite is no longer something that is special or sacred, but something that is selfish and a "need" that must be fulfilled like we are dogs or something.

Yes the world would still procreate, but it would be out of a intimacy brought on by love and sexual desire. Not a Lust for every woman who walks by with a hot face and nice body.

I realize this is very idealistic and does come from the unheard of concept as sexuality being sacred, so spare me the "religious" comments.

Lust is what makes a man leave his wife. Wanting something he doesn't have.

Lust is what creates porn. A desire for sexuality without conesequence.

I am glad none the less that Apple realizes that they take a cut of the App profit and isn't in the business of selling sexuality.

Unless you are talking about their sexy products... lol

Wow, thank you for, ummm, that interesting rant.

And thank you ghost of Pope John Paul II for giving us an edict on "Lust."

If you think happily married couples don't watch porn, climb back in your coffin & leave us again Great Pontiff!

Pardon the interruption, you will now be returned to your regularly scheduled Apple Fanboy program.........

[Scarpad]

Once Again Sex is Bad yet Games with Wanton Violence are OK, I'm so Proud of America.

[codybriana]

BAH it is happening already!

People are so confused about what lust actually is that they think when they are turned on by there wife or something that they are lusting after them!

Lust is not just a sexual desire. Lust is wanting what is not rightfully yours.

If you are married and you are attracted to your wife, it isn't lust!

Lust is a desire that is never satisfied.

It is bizzare to me how much a sexual appetite is no longer something that is special or sacred, but something that is selfish and a "need" that must be fulfilled like we are dogs or something.

Yes the world would still procreate, but it would be out of a intimacy brought on by love and sexual desire. Not a Lust for every woman who walks by with a hot face and nice body.

I realize this is very idealistic and does come from the unheard of concept as sexuality being sacred, so spare me the "religious" comments.

Lust is what makes a man leave his wife. Wanting something he doesn't have.

Lust is what creates porn. A desire for sexuality without conesequence.

I am glad none the less that Apple realizes that they take a cut of the App profit and isn't in the business of selling sexuality.

Unless you are talking about their sexy products... lol

Why should we spare you the religious comments when your comment is based on RELIGION!!!! For you information LUST is Sexual desire. Everyone has it, everyone needs it, it's what makes the human race survive! Let me try and get this through your head, porn is not bad. But the entire point of this thread has gotten off course. The app that was release was not porn! It was bare-chested women! I've seen worse on tv and movies with children in it! Now get off your pulpit and sit down!

[Smith288]

Steve can do whatever he wants with his company, but whether you agree or disagree with his position, you have to understand that this is censorship.


Damn it to hell anyhow....

Censorship is the practice of a govt entity shutting down free speech/religion.

I wish people understood what freedom really was. Apple has the freedom to do this. You have the freedom to find other sources to fulfill your rather sad hobby of watching other people having a good time.

[Timothy]

I think Apple has potentially opened themselves up for a lawsuit. Sure, they are a private company, but I think this issue is more complex than that.

As some have pointed out, Apple sells explicit material through the iTunes store by way of movies and other video content. I can go on there and buy what many on this thread would consider pornography. Apple is allowing that opportunity to movie studios, but not to app developers. They produce and sell (indirectly) the Safari browser on the iPhone which can access porn, but don't allow independent apps that can access porn.

The iPhone is a computer. Can you imagine if Apple controlled the sales of every application that you could run on your computer? If Apple were the sole determiner of what is or is not appropriate for you?

The question is not whether Apple should be selling porn or not, it is whether Apple should be in the business of determining what is or is not appropriate with any measure of consistency (Movies OK, Apps NOT). I wouldn't want to be in that business, and I'm guessing Apple will slowly move away from it with time as well.

[i.mac]

...


They're damned if they do and damned if they don't. I don't know what the balance is. Being a gatekeeper is hard work.

err on the side of caution and on the side of children. Not too difficult.

When a person has young children, decisions are made in their favor, even if this puts your own needs in peril. Not too difficult to do.

Now, imagine that SJ daughter comes across nudity on an app from the store... again, not a difficult decision.

[macduke]

Apple doesn't restrict such content on iTunes, why would it restrict such content on iPhone.

Double standards.

Apple - the user can decide for themselves, they don't require nannying.

Can you please send me a link? Because I'm having trouble finding the "Porn" section of the iTunes store.

[Lokheed]

I applaud Apple's move. There is plenty of porn in this planet, and it's readily available to those that just can't keep their grubby little hands off themselves.

I fear that if porn is allowed, it will flood the App Store. Many of them polluting the top listings and having users wade through the debauchery to find useful apps. And frankly, I don't see the point. If you want porn on your iPhone so bad, just sync your porn directory. The iPhone handles movies and pictures just fine.

I'm not in favour of censorship, I have porn on my MBP, I do masturbate, and I'm not some pious nut... but I can tell the difference between freedom of speech and what is socially appropriate. There is nothing morally wrong with wearing a black bikini to a funeral, but no one does it because it's a faux-pas. We live in a society and sometimes you have to think of others and not only yourselves.

There is no reason we need sleaze on the iPhone. If you desperately want the cheap thrills of gawking at women in skimpy cloths on a 3" screen, then I'd say you have issues. If your argument is that Apple is censoring your life and encroaching on your freedoms, then I'd say you are incredibly myopic and need to reflect on matters a little harder.

This issue is a win/no-loss situation. On the one hand, you keep nudity off a device that children and young adults use. The potential for emotional harm is there. That's a win. On the other hand, you deprive brainless and easy access to content that some of your user base wants, but does not need. The emotional harm is no there, especially considering there are so many alternatives available. That's not much of a loss. It's a good, logical decision.

[moka]

i agree 100% with apples decision, its their choice deal with it, after reading some of your responses here a lot of you seem very desperate about this and wanting porn on your iPhones, it just scares me.

[Timothy]

Can you please send me a link? Because I'm having trouble finding the "Porn" section of the iTunes store.

Just look for any label that says "explicit" or "R" or similar.

[NinjaHERO]

You own and control your car. If you started a business where you promised to drive around with a paid message on your car, you'd be allowed to refuse service if you didn't like a message someone wanted to pay you to put on your car.

Again, you attempt to spin part of my reply. I don't think you are helping your cause. Let me make it clear for you.

I am against censorship. I am for freedom. I believe every person and company has the freedom to say or sell or not say or not sell anything they chose. I believe every person has the freedom to complain about anything a company does. Hence everyone on this board has the right to complain for either side. Macrumors has the right to censor us.

So where am I losing you??

[corinhorn]

Apple doesn't restrict such content on iTunes, why would it restrict such content on iPhone.

Double standards.

Apple - the user can decide for themselves, they don't require nannying.I can see it as a double standard, but I can also see it another way.

If Apple block nipple apps, they only piss off some nipple fans and some developers. If they block the movies with nipples in them and songs with expletives in them, suddenly they will piss off the movie and music industry. They have lobbies and bullies

Developers of apps can't really do a damn thing to Apple since it is Apple who sets the app standards as conflicting as they may seem to be.

[Timothy]

i agree 100% with apples decision, its their choice deal with it, after reading some of your responses here a lot of you seem very desperate about this and wanting porn on your iPhones, it just scares me.

I don't use porn. Would never carry it on my iPhone, but am concerned about having Apple decide what is and is not appropriate content to be used on the computer that I have purchased from them. Especially since they are not being consistent in their cencorship, allowing musicians to sell explicit material, movies studios to sell explicit material, but not app developers.

[DinoMachino]

That's such a loser that they just gotta have their personal flavor of smut at arms length on a moments notice to view on their phone. However, I can see how the dregs of society must have something to keep his hand busy when stuck in traffic

may I remind you of two things:

A.the concept of "novelty"
B.the Internet

the app was more a novelty with it's airbrushed funbags. Which is why I bought it, novelty.

And the Internet, well, it's in the palm of every iPhone owners hand, and I'm willing to bet there still aren't many sticky iPhones, even the iPhones that belong to us "dregs" who enjoy a boobie now and then. It's just not feasable. I mean like, the more you get into it, the more your hand holding the phone shakes... Makes it tough.

Anyways, the app probably doesn't need tone in the store because it's a crap-app, or "crapp" if you will. All it did was bring pictures up from a server. It was a glorified web page. If you feel like you missed out on this one, just put a link on your home screen to youporn or something.

Personally, I could care less about the adult nature of it (clearly) however I'm just disappointed that apple keeps letting these crapps in the store in the first place.

They need a new rule for all developers to follow: "you must be THIS USEFUL to ride the store." come on apple, keep the crapps out.

[mattwolfmatt]

so now the question is.......will people who bought the app at any point sense the initial release of the app get a refund?

I'd love to hear the legalities of this if they dont

It will still work for them, I think.

[Timothy]

If you desperately want the cheap thrills of gawking at women in skimpy cloths on a 3" screen, then I'd say you have issues.
If I were to watch a movie that contains nudity or sexual content, would you suggest that I have "issues?" Would you be happy if Apple refused to sell any movie that contained a nipple?

[diamond.g]

Can you please send me a link? Because I'm having trouble finding the "Porn" section of the iTunes store.

TruBlood is pretty close. It appears to be the top TV Show on iTunes as well...

[WestonHarvey1]

Again, you attempt to spin part of my reply. I don't think you are helping your cause. Let me make it clear for you.

I am against censorship. I am for freedom. I believe every person and company has the freedom to say or sell or not say or not sell anything they chose. I believe every person has the freedom to complain about anything a company does. Hence everyone on this board has the right to complain for either side. Macrumors has the right to censor us.

So where am I losing you??

I guess you're not. I guess we agree. I suppose it is important to distinguish "censorship" and "capital-C Censorship", one that is a free choice not to publish or say something or offer something based on its content, and one that is done by external fiat and backed up by force (government censorship).

The former can elicit legitimate arguments and pleas and boycotts and whatnot, the latter should be condemned by free peoples.

[Lokheed]

If I were to watch a movie that contains nudity or sexual content, would you suggest that I have "issues?" Would you be happy if Apple refused to sell any movie that contained a nipple?

We aren't talking about movies. We are talking about static images; nothing more. Big difference. You're comparing apples to oranges.

[lignsligns]

we're all nude under our clothes

[diamond.g]

I can see it as a double standard, but I can also see it another way.

If Apple block nipple apps, they only piss off some nipple fans and some developers. If they block the movies with nipples in them and songs with expletives in them, suddenly they will piss off the movie and music industry. They have lobbies and bullies

Developers of apps can't really do a damn thing to Apple since it is Apple who sets the app standards as conflicting as they may seem to be.

Then maybe App Developers need Lobbyists and LawyersBullies.

[Blue Fox]

Porn is the last thing I want to flood the App Store with. There are already thousands of pointless apps poluting the store already.

Want porn? You have Safari for that.

[Timothy]

I'm going to develop an app that merely shows screen grabs from available movie and tv shows in the iTunes store. Should Apple allow me to sell this app?

[Treq]

Can you please send me a link? Because I'm having trouble finding the "Porn" section of the iTunes store.

TruBlood is pretty close. It appears to be the top TV Show on iTunes as well...

There is no porn on the iTunes store. Porn is X-rated and has never been available through itunes. This app was at best R-rated and therefor not porn.

[HyperZboy]

Damn it to hell anyhow....

Censorship is the practice of a govt entity shutting down free speech/religion.

I wish people understood what freedom really was. Apple has the freedom to do this. You have the freedom to find other sources to fulfill your rather sad hobby of watching other people having a good time.

In the immortal words of Colonel Sherman Potter in the TV show MASH...
HORSE HOCKEY!
Censorship is NOT confined to government!
Any news organization, website, or corporation can commit the same act.

And few people have stated Apple doesn't have the freedom to do this.
Obviously they do.

The bigger question is... Is it a good business decision or a correct decision for consumers?

Religious zealots who have no porn (but probably cheat on their wives instead) and Apple Fanboys aside, I think we can say NO.

I'm gonna repeat again, VHS vs BETA. Palm are you listening???

Opportunity is knocking on your door. Please answer.

PS: The # of absolutely dumb false comments in this thread is getting frightening.
Did Jerry Falwell's people like put out a talking points memo about this?

[Timothy]

We aren't talking about movies. We are talking about static images; nothing more. Big difference. You're comparing apples to oranges.

So, a static image is pornography but a moving image is not? What's your standard here? Boobs that bounce are fine, but boobs that stay still are not? I think you'll struggle to make this case, but keep trying. ;-)

[Timothy]

There is no porn on the iTunes store. Porn is X-rated and has never been available through itunes. This app was at best R-rated and therefor not porn.

The app that Apple denied merely showed breasts. Are you arguing that breasts in a picture is the equivalent of an x-rated movie?

[mastershakess]

I bought this app before the took it off, still works fine!

I find it hard to believe that the developer changed the content before it was published on the App Store. Apple knew what this App was and released, then they got tons of complains and emails so they took it off. Even the description in the App Store said it included naked photos.

I'm calling BS on the developer changing the App last minute.

[Treq]

The app that Apple denied merely showed breasts. Are you arguing that breasts in a picture is the equivalent of an x-rated movie?

No, the opposite in fact. This was not porn. R-rated at best. I don't know why they got rid of it.

[Doctor Q]

Keep these points in mind:

1. Apple is a business. While they may consider social causes, e.g., (PRODUCT)RED support, and what's good for the world, e.g., using less toxic materials, their primary goal is to sell products and make money. Their choices about what apps to sell are business decisions. NOT selling an app costs them sales income, so they have to believe it suits the bottom line to limit the types of apps they sell.

2. Apple has to pay attention to PR. When an application developer is making them look bad in the news, they have an incentive to hold that developer strictly to the developer agreement while they are both under a microscope. Apple certainly can't be happy if a developer changed the nature of an app's contents after it is approved (if that's what happened), especially when it produces bad publicity.

3. It makes business sense for a major company to follow the sensibilities of its customers. Apple sells in the U.S. and internationally as well, so their customers' opinions about what's acceptable and what's not vary all over the map, but among their primary customers violence and juvenile humor are simply more socially acceptable than other "vices." The apps they've chosen to allow reflect that.

[bladerunner88]

This kind of stuff always cracks me up. Showing women in bikinis posing provocatively and artistic nudity always seems to terrify Americans, while showing killing and mayhem and doctors picking through human remains while cracking jokes on the autopsy table seems the norm (just turn the tv on any channel in prime time). Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy violence and mayhem probably a little more than most folks (USMC Force Recon 8 years), but enough already.

Force Recon Roger your Last!

[Timothy]

No, the opposite in fact. This was not porn. R-rated at best. I don't know why they got rid of it.

Sorry...misunderstood your point since you quoted two posts that were making that point. :-)

[GoodWatch]

Kneel infidels, kneel at Apple's altar and repent :cool:

[hirshnoc]

I think it's funny the positives and negatives are about the same here. Do people REALLY want porn on their phones? :D

[sellitom]

To quote Jerry Seinfeld: "Well, that's a shame."

[ChrisBrightwell]

err on the side of caution and on the side of children. Not too difficult.

This is the responsibility of the parents, not Apple.

[ravenvii]

2. Mobile Safari is great for porn searches!

Not without Flash, it isn't! :eek: :D

[ChrisBrightwell]

This issue is a win/no-loss situation. On the one hand, you keep nudity off a device that children and young adults use. The potential for emotional harm is there. That's a win.

This is fairly short-sighted, in that it completely ignores mainstream media outlets or devices, such as television and home computers.

[tamarco]

Well I guess its based on your definition of "porn" and "nudity"

[DELLsFan]

...The removal by Apple is is interesting, however, as Apple's rating system does seem to allow for "nudity" specifically...

Well ... while we're talking about specifics ... how much money does Apple make from China annually? Now - just recall China's definition of porn ... and a logical person would definitely find the removal by Apple "interesting".

inappropriate is so subjective

Let's just say Apple defines it's morality and ideas of being "proper" by how many countries do business with them. I suppose we should be thankful showing a bare male chest in an app isn't porn ... yet ... Some countries explicitly prohibit the view of a nude torso.

that's so progressive of you, apple. :rolleyes:

1. this comment is in line with extremist muslims who claim women must cover themselves in order not to get raped. be aware that most of us have what's known as "self control"...

Careful now ... you might actually debunk a few more stereotypes if you keep this up. We wouldn't dare try to do that in this section of the forum. :rolleyes:

Thank God, my little sisters like to search the app store and download apps. They don't need to be seeing that garbage.

If you fear the utter corruption and violation of your sisters through iTunes store app surfing, then I would say they are too young to own an iPhone or iPod touch.

Agreed. America is very backwards in it's decency. Protect the kids from sex, porn and the such, but showing a corpse getting autopsied is ok. Imagine if the american Maxim magazine was as fun as the UK version, the censors here would flip.

Backwards is one way to look at it. I call it hypocrisy. Autopsies are one thing. Have you seen any prime time love-making scenes or violence lately? How about any of the reality shows on cable? And, by the way ... if you can't remember when MTV actually played music videos, you're probably too young to be affected by the content in the iTunes store - and wouldn't qualify for the luxury of owning an Apple product in my house. :cool:

[AlmostThere]

You own and control your car. If you started a business where you promised to drive around with a paid message on your car, you'd be allowed to refuse service if you didn't like a message someone wanted to pay you to put on your car.

It is your car, you should be free to put the message of your choice on it and free to run your business as you see fit.

However, in this case, we have the car manufacturer telling you what message you can or cannot put on your car, denying you that fundamental freedom.

[ChrisBrightwell]

I think it's funny the positives and negatives are about the same here. Do people REALLY want porn on their phones? :D

That's not really the point here, but I suspect that you already knew that.

[MacFly123]

YAY APPLE!!! :D:apple:

I am so happy that the company I love has a bit of moral fiber!

[corinhorn]

Agreed. America is very backwards in it's decency. Protect the kids from sex, porn and the such, but showing a corpse getting autopsied is ok.I don't think it is the American people, but the American media that is backwards. American media does not represent my values. I'm an American and I don't let my children watch shows or listen to music riddled with sexuality or riddled with violence.

[twoodcc]

this is a subjective subject, but i do hope apple makes a stand against this

[Timothy]

YAY APPLE!!! :D:apple:

I am so happy that the company I love has a bit of moral fiber!

They do? I can buy or rent the movie 9 1/2 Weeks from the App Store which contains content that is arguably more graphic than what this app contained. So, what's your standard for "moral fiber?"

[Virgil-TB2]

It is nice to see a corporation take the high road. The folks who want porn can find plenty of places to go besides the App Store. When WalMart refused to carry CD's with lewd lyrics, they were also castigated for "censorship". Our culture already has way too much pollution as it is & to preserve some places for just clean stuff is laudable.This app is hardly "porn" though.

At the risk of begging the question, there is a big difference between "nudity" and "porn" for most people around the world, although people in some of the Muslim countries again, and many strictly religious types wouldn't agree I know.

Simple nudity never twisted anyone's mind or sexuality around. There is no evidence of any harm being caused to anyone by nudity, whereas with some of the more hardcore porn stuff there actually is. Intelligent people can disagree of course, but *some* scientists and *some* psychologists have come up with *some* evidence that exposing kids to pee-pee fetish rubber goat sex movies at an early age (or whatever), can skew their sexuality and leave them in a pretty strange place. It can also shock and disturb people quite easily.

Nudity is to Porn as Pot is to Cocaine. There never has been any evidence that nudity is "bad" for anyone.

All this app contains is some bad photographs of pretty girls with the occasional boob showing. It has an adult rating, and the application has built in parental controls, the platform has built in parental controls, etc.

It's totally hypocritical and fascist to deny adults (I would even argue children, but that's another battle), the right to look at what they want to look at. The only argument against it is that others who don't want to look at it might be offended, but given the parental controls, it's a fallacious argument.

Logic and the facts are simply not on the side of anyone who wants to ban this kind of stuff. What's next, Political filters?

[kas23]

I think it's funny the positives and negatives are about the same here. Do people REALLY want porn on their phones? :D

I at least want the choice. Well...fine...I want porn on my iPhone. :p

Still, I don't think this App qualifies as porn, nor do I see how someone could be offended by it.

[corinhorn]

I at least want the choice. Well...fine...I want porn on my iPhone. :pApple is blocking porn sites on the ipHone now? :D As long as it has Safari, you will have quick access to porn—nipple porn or otherwise.

[MidiMonk]

Apple with their secretive ways, "our way or the highway mentality" is ever increasingly turning into a one stop gestapo.The APP store is such a mish mash of standards, Apple really should have set solid guidelines before going live.The hypocrisy is typical though:rolleyes:

[Virgil-TB2]

Gee, if you are that addicted to porn, just carry a few special pics around in your wallet to tide you over till you get home

Woof, Woof - Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gifironically even though I seem to be one of the few arguing for freedom on this thread today, I am not American, and I don't like, read, or view, porn. I never have.

I find it mostly to be dreary, soul-destroying junk that we would be better off without. That being said, it doesn't kill anyone, and most of it doesn't even push any bad messages. There is no logical reason to ban it other than "it's icky" (for some like me).

IMO the people that find porn awful and disgusting should try to separate that feeling, from the facts.

The facts are that porn is only "bad" to the degree that it sends messages to children and in effect "teaches" them bad things. The worst porn is that that sends messages that it's okay to torture and degrade people for instance. Or on a lesser level that which objectifies women. In general, a video or a picture of someone who just happens to be naked only sends the message that it's okay to be naked or to look at naked people.

For a religious-right person that's a "bad" message, bur for most of the world, it's just not. It's harmless. Far more harmless than some of the advertisements you see on TV every day because the messages and suggestions contained in those can be far worse, even though you don't see a (shock!) boobie.

It's message, context, and meaning that should be the issue. Counting bums and boobs and removing them from sight doesn't change the message at all.

[kas23]

It is nice to see a corporation take the high road. The folks who want porn can find plenty of places to go besides the App Store. When WalMart refused to carry CD's with lewd lyrics, they were also castigated for "censorship". Our culture already has way too much pollution as it is & to preserve some places for just clean stuff is laudable.

Bad example. Walmart is the number one seller of guns in the US. What has the potential to be more dangerous to our society; guns or lewd lyrics?

This is in no way an anti-gun post. I am actually pro-gun. However, I needed to put things into perspective. As for Apple, they're just as hypocritical as Walmart. They will sell you albums with lewd lyrics (the same ones Walmart refuses to sell), but will not sell you an App that shows woman's breasts. Go figure.

[Nym]

It's message, context, and meaning that should be the issue. Counting bums and boobs and removing them from sight doesn't change the message at all.

Yes. I agree. My way towards these issues are that, while it not be my choice to look/do/feel/experience certain things in life, it does not mean I think that my ideas should be applied to everyone and much less that they are a "superior" way of looking at things. Idealistically, if it doesn't hurt anyone else, I think everyone should have the right to do whatever they want.

What's wrong with that? They want to protect their own business. I think everyone would.

Nothing. In fact, I never said it was anything wrong. I just said that my opinion was that this had less to do with being "prude" and more about being "corporate".

I then have to question, why block the applications yet not block the movies and tv shows that also show nudity?

I seriously have no idea. It's a double standard, like sex is worse than violence.

I'm an extreme music fan myself and you bet your ass I would be pissed off if Apple decided to remove Cannibal Corpse from the iTMS because of their lyrical content :D.

(Which some users here would still cheer I'm sure, example: "HAVE YOU SEEN THEIR SONG TITLES?? Apple has the right to regulate what they allow on their music store!")

[kas23]

Apple is blocking porn sites on the ipHone now? :D As long as it has Safari, you will have quick access to porn—nipple porn or otherwise.

Yes, they are. Where's my flash support? :D

[kas23]

I just said that my opinion was that this had less to do with being "prude" and more about being "corporate".


Wouldn't allowing porn into the App Store be a better "corporate" decision? The porn industry is a multi-billion dollar industry. It's a money-making machine.

[polaris20]

It is nice to see a corporation take the high road. The folks who want porn can find plenty of places to go besides the App Store. When WalMart refused to carry CD's with lewd lyrics, they were also castigated for "censorship". Our culture already has way too much pollution as it is & to preserve some places for just clean stuff is laudable.

Yeah, because some boobs and some swear words are so much more damaging than the constant violence in video games, television, and movies. :rolleyes:

This country is so jacked up in its ideals, and it's not for the reason many in this thread think.

[corinhorn]

Apple with their secretive ways, "our way or the highway mentality" is ever increasingly turning into a one stop gestapo.The APP store is such a mish mash of standards, Apple really should have set solid guidelines before going live.The hypocrisy is typical though:rolleyes:

Yes, it is so Gestapo like to have a business, want it to succeed, and to protect it.

Apple isn't forcing morals on anyone.

[djdole]

Rather than be a nanny to it's users, Apple should implement a rating system for it's app store like it has for iTunes.
Then include a disclaimer in the TOS agreement and allow users/parents to filter/restrict content as they see fit.
Then if anyone complains about store content, Apple could fall back upon the agreement the user agreed to and say they can and should have filtered/restricted the content if they though it was inappropriate.

Apple, you're missing out on a TON of revenue here... and as A SHAREHOLDER that makes me quite unhappy. :mad:

[kdarling]

Apple isn't forcing morals on anyone.

Compared to other phone makers, yes they are.

They have set themselves up as the only approved source of iPhone apps.

[MidiMonk]

Yes, it is so Gestapo like to have a business, want it to succeed, and to protect it.

Apple isn't forcing morals on anyone.

Yes, they are and by agreeing to its EULA as you use its APP store or Itunes you can only buy what they deem is fit.

[thejadedmonkey]

Yes, it is so Gestapo like to have a business, want it to succeed, and to protect it.

How about pulling ALL of the apps that were developed by this developer?

Apple has now removed all of our apps from the iTunes store without prior warning. We have yet to hear back from them on this issue.

[Sir Pancakes]

No.

No control over content equals iPhone sinking.

There are regional stores that *should* operate under the general mores of the country in which they are located. There are also ample content controls now.

In that situation, for Apple to say that all content decisions are controlled by Apple HQ in the USA, based on the USA's idea of what's morally right or wrong is a disaster waiting to happen.

Previously, people were assuming it was the lack of parental controls that was at issue, but is this is true, it's saying that despite those controls, Apple will still tell you what you are allowed to view or publish. At minimum, the people in Europe are not going to take that for very long because it's ridiculous.

Turn it around and imagine that Apple is a European company, and they decide that "violence" in games is an immoral issue and they simply won't allow it. How do you think the average US citizen would react to that?

It's total hypocrisy (if true.)

You are quite the strategic business analyst. :rolleyes:

[ineedamac]

So I can download the move 'The Reader' yet I can not download an app with nudity? Makes no sense to me.

[larrybeo]

This is simply another case of someone making an app to present in a GUI what one can get for free elsewhere. If you want porn on your iPhone, there are plenty of sites that will stream full length movies specifically formatted for iPhone - for free! Just google the right search terms - and viola! Oh, just for stuff and giggles, let me throw in that watching porn is completely wrong and immoral. Oh, and definitely innappropriate. Steve Jobs is Jesus.

[kockgunner]

It's been said before, but I agree with Apple here. Keep the store clean.

[Heil68]

I'm guessing that MS will not allow such content on their HD Zune and without verifying I'm pretty sure there are no adult applications for the Palm Pre. Point being it isn't only Apple concerned about their image and the content that makes it's way on to their devices.

[corinhorn]

Yes, they are and by agreeing to its EULA as you use its APP store or Itunes you can only buy what they deem is fit.

That does not equal Apple forcing its values. It is Apple choosing what customers to sell products and services to, and how it affects its image.

If you want porn, you can still get porn via Safari on the iPhone.

How about pulling ALL of the apps that were developed by this developer?


Like it or not, the App store isn't an open community. It's part of Apple's business.

[bigmc6000]

I bought this app before the took it off, still works fine!

I find it hard to believe that the developer changed the content before it was published on the App Store. Apple knew what this App was and released, then they got tons of complains and emails so they took it off. Even the description in the App Store said it included naked photos.

I'm calling BS on the developer changing the App last minute.

1) The developer explicitly said he uploaded topless pictures yesterday morning so, umm, yeah, fairly straight forward he intentionally bypassed Apple by having the images on his server
2) You seriously paid $2 for something that pales in comparison to a simple Google search? I've got a few investment properties in Arizona to sell you...

[ChrisBrightwell]

Turn it around and imagine that Apple is a European company, and they decide that "violence" in games is an immoral issue and they simply won't allow it. How do you think the average US citizen would react to that?

You've obviously forgotten about (or are too young to remember) Nintendo's pervasive censorship policies in the US.

[HyperZboy]

Rather than be a nanny to it's users, Apple should implement a rating system for it's app store like it has for iTunes.
Then include a disclaimer in the TOS agreement and allow users/parents to filter/restrict content as they see fit.
Then if anyone complains about store content, Apple could fall back upon the agreement the user agreed to and say they can and should have filtered/restricted the content if they though it was inappropriate.

Apple, you're missing out on a TON of revenue here... and as A SHAREHOLDER that makes me quite unhappy. :mad:

Thank you for your business wise sanity. You said a mouthful there.

And the infrastructure to block child access to porn in the app store is already there in the iPhone 3.0 software, so this decision makes no sense to me.

I know no one thinks the VHS vs BETA analogy is a valid one, but its the most famous instance historically where the PORN industry affected the technology industry, and Apple should heed the lesson regardless of morality issues.

It's only a matter of time before lots of other phones (if not already) allow this content that Apple bans. It's just a bad business decision on so many levels.

[Jason Lee]

Damn it to hell anyhow....

Censorship is the practice of a govt entity shutting down free speech/religion.

I wish people understood what freedom really was. Apple has the freedom to do this. You have the freedom to find other sources to fulfill your rather sad hobby of watching other people having a good time.

You're disingenuous.

As I stated, Jobs can do whatever he wants with his company, which includes self-censoring or expurgating what he feels is inappropriate.

And you're also obnoxiously sanctimonious, as I don't watch porn, nor do I feel I possess the moral superiority to pass judgment to those that do.

[ChrisBrightwell]

It's been said before, but I agree with Apple here. Keep the store clean.

I hope you don't have a copy of iFart on your phone.

[Treq]

I bought this app before the took it off, still works fine!

[/I]

No it doesn't. At least for me it doesn't.

[diamond.g]

Like it or not, the App store isn't an open community. It's part of Apple's business.

How about pulling ALL of the apps that were developed by this developer?

Plus they are probably worried that the dev will add boobies into all their apps. Apple is just curbing a potential problem.

It just makes jailbreaking that much more useful to those who what those kinds of apps.

[Niko03]

This is funny and boring at the same time.

Most everyone here is missing the point.

Apple isn't calling boobies Porn, the media did that via the headlines saying that "Porn has come to the App store".

Apple is pretty good at the PR game and is merely making a statement/stand to protect thier brand and image. Well justifiable and well done.

They are making sure people do not come to the conclusion that "Apple or iPhone = Porn" whether or not boobies are porn or not. And whether or not you view porn as bad or not. And whether or not the skads of intelligent beings on this forum are quite capable of knowing the difference. Good for Apple, Kudos for them.

It's a decision any business is free to make. Be it a grocery store or Gas station.

Don't get me wrong. I'm all for boobies. I like them. They are fun.
But I'm not gonna get bent out of shape by apple saying they will not sell porn. (Whether or not someone deems Boobies porn or not.)

Just like I'm not going to run down to the local Grocery store and beat my chest over the fact that they don't sell girly mags and call them hypocrites and prudish, and say they are trying to push their morals on me. And Just like I'm not going to go to the gas station down the street and beat my chest over the fact that the do sell girly mags and I don't want them in plain sight should I bring my children into the store.

I like boobies and there I several ways to get them on my iphone, for free, should I so desire, that don't require the use of an app.

And just because Apple doesn't want to sell apps that can be construed as porn does not mean they are pushing thier morals on me or any one else.

Good for Apple.

(and did I mention that I like boobies?)

[diamond.g]

Thank you for your business wise sanity. You said a mouthful there.

And the infrastructure to block child access to porn in the app store is already there in the iPhone 3.0 software, so this decision makes no sense to me.

I know no one thinks the VHS vs BETA analogy is a valid one, but its the most famous instance historically where the PORN industry affected the technology industry, and Apple should heed the lesson regardless of morality issues.

It's only a matter of time before lots of other phones (if not already) allow this content that Apple bans. It's just a bad business decision on so many levels.Not everyone has 3.0 so not everyone has parental controls. What do you do then?

[Treq]

This is funny and boring at the same time.

Most everyone here is missing the point.

Apple isn't calling boobies Porn, the media did that via the headlines saying that "Porn has come to the App store".

Apple is pretty good at the PR game and is merely making a statement/stand to protect thier brand and image. Well justifiable and well done.

They are making sure people do not come to the conclusion that "Apple or iPhone = Porn" whether or not boobies are porn or not. And whether or not you view porn as bad or not. And whether or not the skads of intelligent beings on this forum are quite capable of knowing the difference. Good for Apple, Kudos for them.

It's a decision any business is free to make. Be it a grocery store or Gas station.

Don't get me wrong. I'm all for boobies. I like them. They are fun.
But I'm not gonna get bent out of shape by apple saying they will not sell porn. (Whether or not someone deems Boobies porn or not.)

Just like I'm not going to run down to the local Grocery store and beat my chest over the fact that they don't sell girly mags and call them hypocrites and prudish, and say they are trying to push their morals on me. And Just like I'm not going to go to the gas station down the street and beat my chest over the fact that the do sell girly mags and I don't want them in plain sight should I bring my children into the store.

I like boobies and there I several ways to get them on my iphone, for free, should I so desire, that don't require the use of an app.

And just because Apple doesn't want to sell apps that can be construed as porn does not mean they are pushing thier morals on me or any one else.

Good for Apple.

(and did I mention that I like boobies?)
But I can rent R-Rated movies for the iphone that have boobies in them. Why are they allowing that.

[Darkroom]

YAY APPLE!!! :D:apple:

I am so happy that the company I love has a bit of moral fiber!

that's what she said

[MidiMonk]

That does not equal Apple forcing its values. It is Apple choosing what customers to sell products and services to, and how it affects its image.

If you want porn, you can still get porn via Safari on the iPhone.

I dislike porn, but I believe freedom of choice is allowable within "reasonable" limits.I finally saw what all the hoopla was and my gawd, this is such a joke.

BTW There are far worse songs and movies being sold daily.

[bigmc6000]

So I can download the move 'The Reader' yet I can not download an app with nudity? Makes no sense to me.

I really think it's all about context - Apple is essentially the MPAA of the App store and they give things ratings. Movies usually have their nudity placed in context and it's not just topless women walking around for 2 hours - there;s a story etc etc - this app was nothing but topless women that had no story, no anything - it served no purpose other than showing topless women whereas the Reader (as much as I found it painful to watch) told a story (heck, even Wild Things has a story line, a bad one but still...)

I'd have to think if there was a movie that was constant nudity the MPAA would, at worst, give it an NC-17 rating (Showgirls wasn't even 50% nudity and it got the NC-17 rating).

[corinhorn]

Rather than be a nanny to it's users, Apple should implement a rating system for it's app store like it has for iTunes.
Then include a disclaimer in the TOS agreement and allow users/parents to filter/restrict content as they see fit.
Then if anyone complains about store content, Apple could fall back upon the agreement the user agreed to and say they can and should have filtered/restricted the content if they though it was inappropriate.

Apple, you're missing out on a TON of revenue here... and as A SHAREHOLDER that makes me quite unhappy. :mad:

This makes sense, but then the problem is how to rate content. As we can see in this thread, everyone defines porn differently. Apple may feel that nipples are okay for a Teen rating, but some parents may feel otherwise. Does an image have to show penetration for it to be rated Adult, or does it just have to show a snatch shot?. I don't think a clear cut rating system could ever be done without pissing more people off about what is and isn't appropriate

[bigmc6000]

This makes sense, but then the problem is how to rate content. As we can see in this thread, everyone defines porn differently. Apple may feel that nipples are okay for a Teen rating, but some parents may feel otherwise. Does an image have to show penetration for it to be rated Adult, or does it just have to show a snatch shot?. I don't think a clear cut rating system could ever be done without pissing more people off about what is and isn't appropriate

Well let's just ask ourselves something - has any reputable movie theatre EVER had actual porn on one of their screens? Exactly, and when Showgirls came out they had managers standing at the door to the theatre checking IDs to make sure nobody underage got in (in the theatres they did show it that is). It's much easier to slowly push the line back than it is to let all things go to hell and then try to control it - I like what Apple is doing here and to the people who think this going to kill the iPhone I can't do anything but laugh at you, I mean really, you're so confused there's nothing I can even say to you without laughing...

[NStocks]

Haven't read the whole thread, but I can still see the App... UK

[iphoneftw]

what's next ?Private browsers on the app store are porn viewers maybe apple will take those down to. But for a horndog like myself there a great invention

[Unspoken Demise]

I think for an App like this one, there should be a giant disclaimer like the input your password pop up that says EXACTLY what there is on it. Also, it should be the parents responsiblity to not give the child the password. No password= no download.

When I was younger, when I wanted a song or something, I put it in the cart on iTunes, told my dad what I wanted and that it was in the cart. He then decided if it was appropriate for me. He listened to the preview or watched the preview depending on the media source, and then made his decision like a responsible parent. I never resented him for saying no and I understood that my father would know whats best. Now I have my own account and password and I make my own decisions. But as a minor, my parents were responsible in what I should or should not be exposed to until they felt I was ready.

With this pop up, the parent is forced to see EXACTLY what is contained in this App. Then input their password.

Poor/ lazy parenting =! Apple's problem.

Also, when did nudity become pornography?

[Niko03]

But I can rent R-Rated movies for the iphone that have boobies in them. Why are they allowing that.

Don't be so simple.

The media didn't make headline news over the fact that R rated movies are available on iTunes. And Apple is simply responding to the media headlines.

And nobody looks at the local multiplex theater and thinks "porn distributor" or "free boobie pics", when they show those same R rated movies right next to kid friendly rated G movies.

It might not be quite seemingly fair, but it is perception and perception is reality.

[jsdoyle]

:o Can I get a refund?

Man! I though since I downloaded it before it was yanked I was good to go! But nooooo, either Apple or the developer has pulled all the pictures and only a notice that reads, "This version will no longer work. You should delete this version.".

But there is no new version on the App Store.

What now? :) I'm really not that worried about the $1.99. I've dropped a lot more in quarters at the peep show on a Saturday night.

[Jason Lee]

Well let's just ask ourselves something - has any reputable movie theatre EVER had actual porn on one of their screens? Exactly, and when Showgirls came out they had managers standing at the door to the theatre checking IDs to make sure nobody underage got in (in the theatres they did show it that is). It's much easier to slowly push the line back than it is to let all things go to hell and then try to control it - I like what Apple is doing here and to the people who think this going to kill the iPhone I can't do anything but laugh at you, I mean really, you're so confused there's nothing I can even say to you without laughing...

Do reputable book and video stores shelve adult material, including pornography?

Just wondering, has anyone read LOST GIRLS by Alan Moore?

[rustedshut]

I am for nudity, porn and other adult content on the app store. The parental controls are in place. Let's roll out the "garbage," so I can buy it. If they don't want these types of apps. Here's the perfect solution. Give Safari some freakin flash player support and I'll just go to the many flash-based porn sites. Everybody's happy.

[ChrisBrightwell]

Not everyone has 3.0 so not everyone has parental controls. What do you do then?

Make 3.0 a requirement.

[vkxonline]

The number of puritans on this board is really embarrassing .

[gsfgf]

no porn apps = iphone sinkage? :rolleyes:

Yea man. That's what killed betamax.

[zim]

So why limit apps? Why not do the same to music and movies? I'm not saying that I want censorship but I do find it difficult to understand why one type of content developer would be censored (omitted from the store) and not another kind. Is there porn in the movies section, no (not that I know of), but there are movies with sex and there are plenty of songs that have offensive lyrics. Personally I would take porn over violence in movies, songs and games/apps any day. I do commend Apple for taking a stand and keeping the content "clean" but I question if there might be another way.

As for the parenting controls... I have to laugh. People are so lazy/clueless that the only way parenting controls will work is if they are set by default and then you, as the adult, can then turn them off.

[ChrisBrightwell]

The number of puritans on this board is really embarrassing .

... The British colonies were settled by Puritans and Quakers. What do you expect?

[wolfshades]

This app is hardly "porn" though.

At the risk of begging the question, there is a big difference between "nudity" and "porn" for most people around the world, although people in some of the Muslim countries again, and many strictly religious types wouldn't agree I know.

Simple nudity never twisted anyone's mind or sexuality around. There is no evidence of any harm being caused to anyone by nudity, whereas with some of the more hardcore porn stuff there actually is. Intelligent people can disagree of course, but *some* scientists and *some* psychologists have come up with *some* evidence that exposing kids to pee-pee fetish rubber goat sex movies at an early age (or whatever), can skew their sexuality and leave them in a pretty strange place. It can also shock and disturb people quite easily.

Nudity is to Porn as Pot is to Cocaine. There never has been any evidence that nudity is "bad" for anyone.

All this app contains is some bad photographs of pretty girls with the occasional boob showing. It has an adult rating, and the application has built in parental controls, the platform has built in parental controls, etc.

It's totally hypocritical and fascist to deny adults (I would even argue children, but that's another battle), the right to look at what they want to look at. The only argument against it is that others who don't want to look at it might be offended, but given the parental controls, it's a fallacious argument.

Logic and the facts are simply not on the side of anyone who wants to ban this kind of stuff. What's next, Political filters?

Ok - you've made my day. For *once* someone has used the term "begging the question" in the correct manner. I'm not an English fanatic - or anything even approaching that - but it just drives me *insane* when I hear TV anchors, university professors and politicians all using that phrase - and then following it up with an actual question.

That being said, I doubt there's any logical fallacy in your argument. By that I mean: I've looked and haven't been able to find any.

[fishballer]

Once Again Sex is Bad yet Games with Wanton Violence are OK, I'm so Proud of America.

how do you type with every word capitalized? not bashing, just curious. do you do that in emails? or just forums?

[diazj3]

I think it's a good BUSINESS decision by Apple... porn (soft nudity or hardcore sex) is the #1 business in internet (so I've read). Once they get into any of it - no matter how mild - and such line has been crossed, porn will flood the app store, maybe hurting the motivation of developers for creating useful apps, hurting in the long run Apples name and sales - when the iPhone gets considered a "porn-tool".

I think it was no easy choice for Apple - since some may think Apple is trying to be a "moral compass", as some here have argued. But in the end, Apple is forced to pick a side, businesswise.

I'm not morally scared or insulted by porn, but I do think it doesn't bring anything good to most people's lives. Once porn gets in, it's going to be difficult to draw a clear line between mild nudity and hardcore sex with animals or such things, plus all kinds of malware will follow.

If some users want porn, there are a million other ways to get it.

cheers!

[skuban]

Apple will not distribute applications that contain inappropriate content, such as pornography.

Unless they are created by Apple and pre-installed on EVERY device - even little Timmy's...

Between iTunes/iPod and Safari I think this is pretty hypocritical.

I don't see Apple refusing to sell certain movies or even TRYING any type of filtering on the net for iphones with the parental controls "on".

Scott

[wolfshades]

YAY APPLE!!! :D:apple:

I am so happy that the company I love has a bit of moral fiber!


*blinks*

...........mom?.............

[morespce54]

terrible news.

Fist Jackson now this.

when will it end?

LOL!!!!!

Okay, they may sell (or not sell) whatever they want, even if the AppStore *is* the only place to buy app for your iPhone/Touch...

But please, porn is a trap??? :confused:
Geez... so is alcohol, music, Wii, religion, love, etc...

[hayesk]

At the risk of begging the question, there is a big difference between "nudity" and "porn" for most people around the world,

Fair enough.

There is no evidence of any harm being caused to anyone by nudity, whereas with some of the more hardcore porn stuff there actually is. Intelligent people can disagree of course, but *some* scientists and *some* psychologists have come up with *some* evidence that exposing kids to pee-pee fetish rubber goat sex movies at an early age (or whatever), can skew their sexuality and leave them in a pretty strange place. It can also shock and disturb people quite easily.
You are basically saying that exposing kids to stuff at an early age can skew them at a later age. Sure, but that goes for taste in food, racism, favourite sports - anything, good or bad shapes children in their developing years.


Nudity is to Porn as Pot is to Cocaine. There never has been any evidence that nudity is "bad" for anyone.
I have to disagree. Cocaine has proven physical addicting qualities. Porn does not. If you showed porn to 100 mentally healthy regularly for a year, they would be fine. If you gave cocaine to 100 healthy people regularly for a year, you'd have quite a bit more people with a cocaine problem than a porn problem. By problem, I mean has a negative impact on their overall life.

It's totally hypocritical and fascist to deny adults (I would even argue children, but that's another battle), the right to look at what they want to look at. The only argument against it is that others who don't want to look at it might be offended, but given the parental controls, it's a fallacious argument.

Agreed.

[ceezy3000]

so much for thinking different :rolleyes:
(seriously though i have to agree with apples decision)

[wolfshades]

Nudity is to Porn as Pot is to Cocaine. There never has been any evidence that nudity is "bad" for anyone.




I have to disagree. Cocaine has proven physical addicting qualities. Porn does not. If you showed porn to 100 mentally healthy regularly for a year, they would be fine. If you gave cocaine to 100 healthy people regularly for a year, you'd have quite a bit more people with a cocaine problem than a porn problem. By problem, I mean has a negative impact on their overall life.


I think you missed the point here. He wasn't saying coke is harmless. He was saying that pot, like nudity, is harmless. Yet some put pot and cocaine as both being dangerous, much like some people put nudity and porn as equal in effect. i.e. pot is to cocaine as nudity is to porn

[kdarling]

Plus they are probably worried that the dev will add boobies into all their apps. Apple is just curbing a potential problem.

Agreed... I think this is a lot of the reason.

Apple would be overrun very quickly with lurid submissions, and their store would become a late-night talk show joke (albeit a rich one).