Apple removes vaping-related apps from the App Store

Apple on Friday removed 181 vaping-related apps from its App Store in an effort to combat health concerns from using e-cigarettes, Axios first reported. In a statement, Apple confirmed to STAT that the App Store’s review guidelines had been updated to “reflect that apps encouraging or facilitating the use of [vaping] products are not permitted.” The company never allowed the direct sale of e-cigarettes or vaping cartridges on its platform, but apps allowed users to control the lighting and temperature of programmable vape pens, while others offered games or vaping-related news. Those who have already downloaded the apps can continue to use them. Apple’s move comes amid an ongoing investigation into the recent string of vaping-related lung illnesses — formally dubbed EVALI. To date, 2,172 people have gotten sick, and 42 people have died.