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Discord softens its iOS NSFW server ban

You'll still have to opt in.

An Apple iPhone 11 smartphone with the Discord software app logo on screen, taken on January 27, 2020. (Photo by Phil Barker/Future Publishing via Getty Images) (Future Publishing via Getty Images)

Discord is backing away from its ban on accessing NSFW servers from iOS, if only partly. The Verge notes the chat service has updated its policy to note that it will only ban servers devoted to "explicit pornographic content." You can access other NSFW servers by opting in from a computer first.

The company didn't explain the decision. We've asked the firm for comment.

The initial approach, which blocked all NSFW-labeled servers on iOS, was likely prompted by Apple's App Store policies. The tech giant forbids apps where nudity is a major focus, but allows "incidental" content. If Discord didn't ban porn-oriented servers, it risked a ban.

This new method won't satisfy all users, but it will let many chatters continue to participate on iPhones and iPads. It could be particularly helpful for moderators who'd lose the ability to police discussions away from their computers.

Update (4:50 PM ET): In a statement, Discord said "We will continue to work with server owners and our partners, and will notify all server owners letting them know which of their servers are impacted."

Discord spokesperson:

"Our goal is always to keep Discord safe, especially for our younger users. Last week, we introduced additional controls to ensure minors will not be exposed to content that is inappropriate for them per App Store guidelines. We realize the community had many questions, and we wanted to clarify our position and which servers will or will not be affected. These updates are outlined in detail on our support articles for users and server owners. We will continue to work with server owners and our partners, and will notify all server owners letting them know which of their servers are impacted. "