Apple and Google App Stores Host Nudify Apps with 483M Downloads and $122M Revenue
Researchers found 18 nudifying apps in Apple’s App Store and 20 in Google Play, collectively downloaded 483 million times. These apps have generated $122 million in revenue while bypassing policies against nonconsensual sexualized images, prompting only sporadic removals and policy enforcement by both companies.
1. Prevalence of Nudify Apps
Searches for terms like “nudify” and “undress” reveal 18 apps in Apple’s App Store and 20 in Google Play that can generate nonconsensual sexualized images. Both platforms sometimes direct users to these apps via autocomplete suggestions and in-store ads.
2. Policy Gaps and Enforcement
Apple’s guidelines prohibit overtly sexual content and Google’s ban covers apps objectifying people, yet enforcement has been inconsistent. Some flagged apps were removed, but dozens of similar ones appeared within months, highlighting review process shortcomings.
3. Downloads and Revenue Impact
The identified nudify apps have amassed 483 million downloads and $122 million in revenue through subscriptions and in-app purchases. This activity represents a notable source of third-party income and poses reputational risks for both companies.
4. Regulatory and Political Pressure
Global lawmakers have intensified calls to curb nudifying apps over the past year, prompting ongoing investigations and occasional app suspensions. Both companies face scrutiny over their app review processes and are under pressure to strengthen policy enforcement.