Analysis: Dozens of “nudify” apps were searchable in Apple and Google stores, allegedly pulling in $122M+

What happened

It has been reported that an analysis by TTP found dozens of so‑called “nudify” apps live and discoverable in both Apple’s App Store and Google Play — despite both platforms’ rules that broadly ban apps that sexualize or manipulate images to create nudity. The apps were reportedly available via normal search; in some cases they surfaced alongside innocuous photo‑editing tools. How did they slip past automated review and human checks? Good question.

The scale and the stakes

It has been reported that the analyzed apps collectively generated more than $122 million in revenue — a striking figure that underlines both demand and the commercial incentives at play. Allegedly, many of the apps monetized through subscriptions, in‑app purchases, or ad funnels. Beyond the dollars, the emotional moment here is obvious: these tools can weaponize images and privacy, and the potential for harassment or non‑consensual exploitation is chilling in the age of deepfakes.

Platforms under the microscope

Apple and Google publish policies meant to block exploitative or sexually explicit image manipulation, yet discoverability appears to have been a weak point. It has been reported that some listings remained visible until researchers flagged them. Neither company has offered a comprehensive explanation for how search surfaced these apps or for the timeliness of removals; press statements, if any, were limited.

Why it matters

This episode is a reminder that content policy is only as strong as enforcement, and that market incentives will push bad actors to push boundaries. Regulators and safety teams will likely use this as another data point when debating app store oversight, algorithmic discovery, and platform liability. And for users? Be wary of any app promising magical image transformations — if a deal looks too salacious to be true, it probably is.

Sources: bloomberg.com