The fact that a host of mature content is already available on iTunes, and that the iPhone has a built-in web browser, has always made it something of an unfunny joke that the App Store was so prudish in its submissions policy.
But that policy has evidently been relaxed since the 3.0 software made
easily configurable parental controls available, which is something a great many users have been waiting for - not just for porn, but for more mature themed games. And for porn.
Existing application
Hottest Girls has just had an update approved that now contains full nudity, which is a clear leap forward in Apple's attitude toward approvals. Presumably if nudity is now acceptable, other themes such as horror, violence and swearing will also be looked upon in a less sectarian manner.
And, of course, if porn/adult applications start to work their way onto the App Store, this could provide a huge boost in revenue for Apple, which will still be creaming 30 per cent off the top of those writhing, naked application profits.
Whether it's porn you're after or not, this evidence that Apple has matured in its approval sensibilities is great news for the iPhone community.
Alex Hardy | 25 June 2009
Mature content is fine, but just because you're over-18 doesn't mean you want to see it. I don't want to feel like I'm perusing the top shelf of a news agent's shop when I'm looking for my next iPhone game.
Apple should add a series of opt-in checkboxes to your iTMS account that allow you to filter in/out this kind of content without having to use "parental" controls that might lock you out of purchasing (for instance) a Grand Theft Auto title.
Joined:
Jul 2008
Post count:
369
That's actually an excellent idea Alex. As you say, using the parental controls for your own benefit could mean you'd miss stuff you do actually want to see, for the sake of avoiding porn stuff. That sounds like something that should be incorporated into the App Store, as much as the iPhone OS. Good call.
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