23 Mar 11 | Index Index
Apple appears to have removed an application designed to provide “freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus”, following widespread condemnation and a petition signed by over 149,000 people.
Apple, which has strict regulation of products available in its store, had marked the app with a “4+” rating, indicating that the application contained “no objectionable content”.
The petition, started on Change.org by think tank Truth Wins Out, demanded that Apple remove the Exodus app from its iTunes store. It stated:
Apple doesn’t allow racist or anti-Semitic apps in its app store, yet it is giving the green light to an app targeting vulnerable LGBT youth with the message that their sexual orientation is a “sin that will make your heart sick” and a “counterfeit.” This is a double standard that has the potential for devastating consequences.
07 Mar 11 | Comment, News and features
Apple should be part of the open online society, rather than the architects behind a system of control, argues Bill Thompson
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20 Jul 10 | Index Index, minipost, News and features
Apple has removed an iPhone application based on the infamous ChatRoulette website from their store after concerns over nudity. iChatr allowed users to video chat anonymously with other randomly-selected people. ChatRoulette, a website with similar functionality, came in for criticism after it emerged that a substantial number of users were exposing themselves onscreen or engaging in other questionable behaviour. Apple has previously maintained a strict line on iPhone apps which allow access to nudity or adult content.
16 Jun 10 | Index Index, minipost, News and features
Apple have issued a red-faced apology after censoring a drawing on the iPad. Belgian artist Tom Bouden’s graphic novelisation of The Importance of Being Earnest is the latest application to undergo censorship, as Apple continues its campaign to keep their new device free of pornography. Users who purchased the application objected to the black-outs covering the panels of two men kissing, arguing that more sexually graphic comics have escaped being redacted. In response to concerns of censorship and prejudice, Apple have asked developers to resubmit the original graphic content.
