Australian Senator Plans iPhone Gambling Application Ban
iPhone Apps
Outspoken Senator Nick Xenophon has called on Apple to effectively ban gambling applications on the iPhone. Xenophon has criticised iPhone applications which allow users to gamble with fun, or pretend, money on slots and poker games, without having recommended age limits or warnings. Xenophon has suggested that it’s “irresponsible to allow these applications in the hands of children”, noting that the applications will “no doubt…fuel gambling addiction”. The Sydney Morning Herald has reported that while some gambling applications have age limits, others don’t, often allowing young children to play them. Early reports have indicated that Xenophon wishes to “outlaw” Apple apps which feature simulated gambling, suggesting that they are “a training application for kids to lose real money when they turn 18”.
Since discussing the iPhone applications, Xenophon has suggested he’ll ask the federal government to call an inquiry into the games, with a view of enforcing tighter age restrictions – a move which will no doubt be welcomed by most application developers. While Xenophon has openly criticised the application makers, the senator has yet to discuss whether any blame lies with parents who allow their children to access unfiltered iPhone content, or why young children will have such ready access to an iPhone.
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