Well, well, well, look who’s taking a dip in the adult content pool! Apple is reluctantly joining the Hot Tub party, courtesy of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Their hand has been forced, and now the first native iPhone porn app—Hot Tub—has arrived, much to the delight of users looking for a smoother pleasure-seeking experience. What a time to be alive!
Could this be the start of a more open digital space for European adults-only content creators? Generally speaking, a more open digital creator space means a more lucrative digital creator space. European digital sex workers, who’ve been stuck behind paywalls or sneaky web browsers, may finally be able to access more app-based opportunities. OnlyFans has operated for years on the concept that more freedom for creators equals more cash for creators. Will that play out the same way for Hot Tub? Let’s speculate together.
Apple isn’t exactly thrilled about this development. Hot Tub isn’t supported in Apple’s App Store, but due to EU regulations around app sales, they have to allow users to download the app via alternative app stores. These alternative app stores are playing a big role in pushing Apple’s boundaries further than the company was prepared to go. You know this isn’t their ideal app store addition, but here they are—forced to let the people enjoy their “spank candy.”
The alternative marketplace behind Hot Tub isn’t just cashing in on a fantastic business opportunity—they’re actively giving back to the vulnerable communities that many adults-only content creators belong to. For the month of February, all Patreon earnings from the alt-store hosting Hot Tub will be donated to The Trevor Project, Red Umbrella Fund, and other LGBTQIA+ and sex worker support groups. It’s almost poetic, no? Big Tech meets grassroots generosity. Fitting.
So… what’s next for the world of adults-only content? Could this possibly open the floodgates for more adult entertainment apps in the European market? It’s possible. As for markets outside the EU, the world will be watching to see if Apple will be forced to play ball elsewhere. The internet will certainly be watching (and probably downloading, let’s be honest).
Regardless of what happens next, Apple? Welcome to the wild side. The EU may have dragged you here kicking and screaming, but we’re happy to have you at the party. Whether this is a one-off or the start of a whole new app ecosystem, iPhones have just gotten a whole lot hotter.
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