How Apple and Google let children easily access undressing AI apps

A Tech Transparency Project investigation found that using a test account for a 13-year-old boy, dozens of AI apps that undress or face-swap people in photos could be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play, even with parental controls enabled. The investigation identified 135 such apps accessible to the test account, which according to AppMagic data had a combined 5.5 billion downloads and $3.9 billion in global revenue. The two stores' app age ratings rely on developers self-reporting, leading many adult-oriented apps to be labeled as suitable for minors, and Apple's default account was also allowed to click straight through when a pop-up asked to confirm age. As of September 28, Apple had removed 25 apps and Google had removed 6, but apps already downloaded could still be used on the test phone. Apple updated its review guidelines three days after TTP's inquiry, prohibiting apps that generate non-consensual intimate imagery and tightening rules on hidden features; Google said it would suspend violating apps and restrict related search terms.