AI nudify apps remain widely accessible on major platforms despite clear bans. As a result, this exposes a growing gap between policy and enforcement. A recent report from the Tech Transparency Project shows that Apple and Google still host apps that generate explicit deepfake images. In some cases, this content is accessible to children.
These findings raise serious concerns about platform accountability. At the same time, they highlight the real-world risks of artificial intelligence tools. Notably, these tools have moved from niche use to mainstream apps. However, despite strict guidelines, both Apple and Google continue to struggle with enforcement. While Google bans AI nudify apps, Apple also restricts sexual and misleading content. Even so, enforcement appears uneven.
When users search for terms like “nudify” or “undress,” harmful results still appear. Consequently, users can access tools that digitally remove clothing from real people. In addition, others allow users to insert faces into explicit videos. Surprisingly, some of these apps carry an “E” for Everyone rating. Therefore, they remain accessible to young users. In several cases, app stores even display ads for similar tools. As a result, this increases their visibility instead of limiting it.
According to the Tech Transparency Project, at least 38 such apps exist across both platforms. Collectively, these AI nudify apps have generated about $122 million in revenue. Moreover, they have reached around 483 million downloads. This scale clearly shows how profitable the segment has become. While some apps openly use suggestive images to attract users, others appear harmless. Nevertheless, they still include features that enable explicit content creation.
Katie Paul, director of the Tech Transparency Project, addressed the issue in comments to Bloomberg. She argued that the problem goes beyond simple oversight. In fact, platforms are not just failing to block the apps. Instead, they are also directing users to them. This happens through search and recommendation systems. Consequently, this raises concerns about how these systems operate.
More broadly, the growth of AI nudify apps reflects a wider shift in deepfake technology. Previously, such tools required advanced skills. Now, however, they are easy to use. As a result, misuse has increased significantly. For instance, many victims face reputational harm. In addition, others experience emotional distress. In most cases, they have limited options once content spreads online.
Meanwhile, governments are starting to act. In the United Kingdom, officials have called for a ban on such apps. Specifically, the focus is on protecting children from exploitation. Similarly, in the United States and other countries, lawmakers are proposing new rules. These measures target non-consensual deepfake content. Furthermore, California authorities have already taken action against platforms hosting such material. Therefore, regulatory pressure continues to grow.
In response, both Apple and Google have acknowledged enforcement actions. For example, Apple said it removed several flagged apps. Likewise, Google confirmed it suspended some violating apps. It also stated that investigations are ongoing. However, the continued presence of AI nudify apps suggests deeper issues remain. In many cases, enforcement happens only after harm has already spread.
At its core, the situation reveals a structural challenge. App stores operate at massive scale. Therefore, they review millions of submissions each year. Detection systems rely on automation and human review. However, AI tools can hide harmful features. As a result, they become harder to identify. At the same time, popular apps generate significant revenue. Consequently, this creates tension between safety and profit.
For users, the risks extend beyond exposure to explicit content. More importantly, the rise of AI nudify apps raises concerns about privacy and consent. Today, anyone with an online presence can become a target. In many cases, victims do not even know their images are being used. Therefore, the urgency for stronger protections continues to grow.
Ultimately, the persistence of these apps marks a critical moment. The technology industry must adapt quickly. As artificial intelligence evolves, regulation must keep pace. Platforms now face increasing pressure to act decisively. Going forward, stronger enforcement and better detection systems will be essential. Otherwise, the gap between policy and practice will continue to widen.
