Apple updates App Store rules to ban AI deepfake and nudify apps

Apple updated its App Review Guidelines on October 16, 2026, to explicitly prohibit applications that generate nonconsensual intimate images using artificial intelligence tools. According to the Verge, 9to5Mac, and MacRumors, the updated rules mandate that developers must proactively prevent and remove artificial intelligence deepfakes from their platforms. While sexually explicit content was already prohibited, the revised guidelines target nudify software directly. [1][2][5]

The Verge reported that the policy updates follow criticism directed at Apple after users on the X platform used the Grok AI tool to generate sexualized deepfakes, including content involving minors. The Verge noted that Apple did not remove X or Grok from its marketplace, but told United States senators that it threatened to remove Grok. Protestors at Apple's WWDC event in June also called on the company to remove Grok, X, and nudify technologies. [1]

The App Store serves as Apple's official marketplace for mobile and desktop applications across operating systems like iOS, macOS, and iPadOS. According to 9to5Mac, the latest guideline revision also addresses deceptive app review practices and bait and switch features, following reports from organizations like the Tech Transparency Project regarding apps exposing users to harmful content. [2][9]

Separately, Apple took down its online retail store on October 16 to prepare for iPhone Duo preorders, as reported by 9to5Mac and MacRumors. 9to5Mac indicated preorders started at 5:00 a.m. Eastern Time, while MacRumors reported the start time as 5:00 a.m. Pacific Time. 9to5Mac stated that launch day stock for the new foldable device is scheduled to ship on October 23. [3][4]