Apple has decided to update its App Store policies, banning all applications that encourage the use of vaping products. The move comes in response to findings that a recent spate of vaping-related illnesses and deaths have been traced to black market THC vaping products. Apple hopes that by prohibiting new downloads of associated apps, it can help prevent further use of these products.
The ban also extends to apps that encourage use of other substances such as “illegal drugs, or excessive amounts of alcohol” or that encourage minors to use those substances. It also includes apps used for “the sale of marijuana, tobacco, or controlled substances (except for licensed pharmacies)”
Gizmodo reports that users will retain the ability to use apps that they have already downloaded, as well as transferring them to new devices, but no new downloads will be allowed.
Kate is a senior copy editor in Northern California. She holds a bachelor's degree in English with a minor in professional writing from the University of California, Davis.