The groups specifically targeted the presence of “nudify” applications and AI-driven tools like xAI’s Grok, which have been criticized for facilitating nonconsensual sexualized imagery. According to data from the Tech Transparency Project cited by the protesters, Apple has allegedly generated at least $117 million from these apps, with roughly $35 million attributed to Grok alone. Pamphlets distributed at the scene claim at least 47 such applications remain accessible via the App Store.
Protesters target Apple over child safety and deepfake apps
Outside Apple’s Cupertino headquarters, activists from UltraViolet and the Heat Initiative gathered Monday to demand the removal of nonconsensual deepfake software and child safety safeguards. The demonstration coincides with the company's annual developer conference, casting a shadow over the tech giant’s latest product announcements and internal leadership transitions.
Demonstrators displayed signs questioning incoming CEO John Ternus on his strategy for addressing these risks. The protest highlights a recurring tension between Apple’s privacy-centric policies and external demands for stricter content moderation. The company previously abandoned plans to scan iCloud photos for child sexual abuse imagery following significant backlash regarding user privacy. Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the protest or the specific allegations surrounding its revenue from these applications.
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