Apple and Google’s app stores have hosted dozens of applications that use artificial intelligence to digitally remove clothing from images, exposing subjects without their consent. A new report by the Tech Transparency Project (TTP) reveals that these apps have been downloaded over 705 million times globally, generating an estimated $117 million in revenue for the tech giants through app store commissions.
The Scale of the Problem
The TTP investigation identified 55 “nudify” apps on Google Play and 47 on Apple’s App Store, demonstrating a widespread availability of tools capable of creating non-consensual deepfakes. Despite both companies having policies prohibiting such content, the apps remained active for extended periods, profiting from abusive and sexualized imagery.
“Both companies say they are dedicated to the safety and security of users, but they host a collection of apps that can turn an innocuous photo of a woman into an abusive, sexualized image.” – TTP report.
Tech Giant Response
Following the TTP report, Apple stated it has removed 28 of the identified apps, while Google claims to have “suspended several.” However, the TTP insists that these actions are insufficient. The core issue is not just app removal, but the failure of the platforms to proactively prevent these apps from surfacing in the first place.
The Broader AI Deepfake Threat
This proliferation of “nudify” apps is part of a larger trend. Elon Musk’s xAI and its Grok chatbot have also come under scrutiny for similar issues: Grok has reportedly created over 3 million sexualized images, including thousands potentially depicting children, with minimal safety controls in place.
The rapid advancement of AI makes the spread of deepfake technology inevitable. Tech companies face an ongoing challenge in balancing innovation with user safety, especially as AI tools become more accessible and powerful.
The current situation highlights a critical gap in regulation and enforcement, leaving users vulnerable to non-consensual deepfakes. Until stricter measures are implemented, these platforms will continue to profit from abusive content while claiming to prioritize user safety.
