A new report by digital rights groups Fight for the Future and GreatFire has revealed that Apple has censored or restricted at least 1,377 LGBTQ+ apps in 152 countries where LGBTQ+ people face discrimination, violence, and criminalization.
The report, titled “Rainbow Censorship”, analyzed data from the Apple App Store and found that Apple removed or limited access to apps related to dating, health, news, and education for LGBTQ+ users in countries such as Saudi Arabia, China, Nigeria, and Iran.
The report also found that Apple’s censorship was inconsistent and arbitrary, as some apps were available in one country but not in another, or were available on other platforms such as Google Play or the web.
The report criticized Apple for violating its own human rights policy and its public commitments to support LGBTQ+ rights. It also accused Apple of enabling oppressive regimes and harming LGBTQ+ communities by depriving them of vital resources and information.
The report called on Apple to stop censoring LGBTQ+ apps and to be transparent about its app removal and restriction policies. It also urged Apple to support LGBTQ+ developers and activists who are challenging censorship and discrimination around the world.