Apple threatened Grok owner xAI with an App Store ban over nonconsensual pornographic deepfakes that flooded X in January. The tech giant initially remained silent as social media platforms struggled with AI-generated images involving non-consenting adults and minors, despite facing growing criticism for its inaction.

Apple rejected an app update for Grok, stating that while X had resolved violations, the app itself remained out of compliance. After changes between app review and xAI developers, Apple approved the update, calling it "substantially improved." However, users continue finding ways to bypass deepfake blocks, revealing ongoing moderation challenges.

The disparity in Apple's enforcement is striking. While at least 28 other deepfake porn apps were quietly removed after the X/Grok incident, Musk's apps received special treatment. Apple's selective application of its own guidelines raises questions about whether powerful entities receive preferential treatment in the App Store ecosystem.