A new report finds that LGBTQ+ focused apps faced 1,377 documented cases of access restrictions across 152 App Stores around the world. Moreover, the report, conducted by China-based nonprofit GreatFire in partnership with Fight for the Future, says that at least 50 of these apps -- including the majority of the most popular ones widely used by LGBTQ+ folks for entertainment, social connectivity, and physical wellness -- are currently unavailable in at least one or more App Stores.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Apple says it is complying with local anti-LGBTQ+ laws, implying that the removal or censorship of apps is just the “cost of doing business” in these countries. It also says that many developers decide to self-censor, or choose countries where they don’t want their apps listed. But in reality Apple has no such obligation: If Apple would only let users install apps directly from developer websites, many LGBTQ+ users around the world would be able to access these apps, and Apple would no longer be complicit in censorship.

In 2008, Apple made the unprecedented decision to limit iPhone users to running software approved and distributed through their App Store. This means that once an app is removed from the App Store, there is no alternative way to install it. Some developers have worked around App Store censorship by creating web apps. But Apple makes web apps cumbersome to install and limits their functionality in arbitrary ways (e.g., no push notifications) and the vast majority of popular apps are not web apps. Worse, Apple's main reason for requiring app installs seems to be to protect their profits: if all apps must be installed via the App Store, all apps must pay a revenue to Apple. Apple is choosing to collaborate with governments to censor LGBTQ+ apps in large part to protect this lucrative revenue stream. So the result of Apple’s policies is that many LGBTQ+ people cannot access the crucial information and support they need.

Apple argues that direct download of apps from the internet will compromise user security, but in reality this is security theater: There are tons of scams and fake apps on the App Store. The bottom line is that Apple’s monopolistic distribution model is a gift to censors and dictatorships everywhere.

Letter text: “Apple’s App Store should not censor LGBTQ+ apps on behalf of oppressive governments, period. This is particularly crucial for technology applications that help marginalized folks find community, and in the case of LGBTQ+ people, access to safety and life-saving mental health counseling. Tell Apple: Especially in countries where the company has to comply with local censorship laws, and more generally worldwide, it should allow for direct download of apps from the open internet with the appropriate cryptographic safeguards. It should especially take note of the unavailability and censorship of LGBTQ+ community apps and the sensitivity of access during Pride Month, and take this step proactively and immediately.”