Apple Tightens AI App Rules as Meta Revises Scraping Terms

Apple has more explicitly banned AI apps that generate intimate images without consent, while Meta has removed terms that appeared to permit broad scraping for AI training. Elsewhere, OpenAI discussed building a humanoid robot, Replit replaced Anthropic as its default model provider, Tesla demonstrated a flying Roadster prototype, and MapQuest added a map layer for license-plate reader cameras.

Apple Expands Its Ban on AI “Nudify” Apps

Apple has updated its App Store rules to more explicitly prohibit apps that use AI to generate intimate images of people without their consent. The change addresses so-called “nudify” tools and follows criticism over the spread of sexualized deepfakes, including images involving minors. Engadget reports on Apple’s updated rules. The Verge notes that Apple had faced pressure to act against such apps, while its treatment of larger platforms associated with similar activity had also drawn scrutiny. The Verge details the rule changes and their context.

Meta Removes Language That Raised Scraping Questions

Meta has removed language from its commercial terms that appeared to give the company permission to use content from websites—including news sites—to provide, develop, improve, research, and train its products. The change followed backlash and interpretations that the wording could authorize broader web scraping for AI purposes. The Verge reports on the deleted language. A Meta spokesperson said the updated terms did not represent a change in how the company crawls the web, according to TechCrunch.

OpenAI Is Pursuing a Humanoid Robot

OpenAI is building a humanoid robot intended to operate in environments designed for people, according to comments attributed to CEO Sam Altman. Altman said the robot’s “brain” would be a bigger challenge than the body, as the company considers the software needed to handle the complexity of the physical world. Engadget reports on Altman’s comments. The supplied report does not provide a product name, launch timetable, or technical specifications.

Replit Makes OpenAI Its Default Model Provider

Replit is no longer working with Anthropic as its default model provider, according to CEO Amjad Masad. Masad later clarified that OpenAI would replace Anthropic as the platform’s default, while Claude would remain available to Replit customers. TechCrunch reports the change. The report does not specify the commercial terms or explain why the default-provider relationship changed.

Tesla Demonstrates a Roadster With SpaceX-Derived Thrusters

Tesla unveiled a prototype Roadster in Texas with SpaceX-developed air thrusters, demonstrating aerial flips and a claimed zero-to-60-mph time of under one second. Production is not expected until 2028, and the flying version is described as an invite-only package that is not approved for public roads. Bloomberg’s report describes the unveiling. Elon Musk also said the Roadster would be Tesla’s only manually driven vehicle in the long term, according to Business Insider.

MapQuest Adds a License-Plate Camera Layer

MapQuest has added a “surveillance layer” to its mobile app that lets users locate known automatic license-plate reader cameras along a route. The feature covers cameras associated with Flock Safety, Axon, Motorola Solutions, PlateSmart, and other vendors. These systems capture vehicle images and use machine learning to turn details such as license plates, colors, makes, and models into searchable data. Business Insider reports on MapQuest’s new feature and the privacy concerns around it.

The Details Still Require Follow-Up

Apple’s enforcement of its revised App Store language, Meta’s explanation of how its web crawling operates, and OpenAI’s plans for a humanoid robot remain the clearest follow-ups. Replit’s provider transition and Tesla’s Roadster timeline also have important commercial and technical details still to come.