Apple has taken down the Eyes Up application, a tool designed to collect and store videos of Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests. This action follows the recent removal of another app called ICEBlock, which focused on tracking ICE operations to send real-time alerts. However, Eyes Up functioned primarily as an archive rather than a live evasion tool. The app remains accessible through its own website and the Google Play Store. It compiles videos of ICE arrests from various sources and displays them on an interactive map. Users have the ability to contribute their own videos and can tap on map markers to view and download the footage. The stated purpose of the app is to promote government accountability, with archived videos potentially serving as evidence in legal proceedings concerning alleged ICE misconduct. According to reports, Apple justified its decision by stating the app breached its policies on objectionable content. The company also cited information from law enforcement suggesting the app could be used to target and harm law enforcement officers by revealing their location details. This removal appears to be part of a broader trend. The earlier removal of the ICEBlock app was reportedly prompted by a direct request from a state Attorney General. The fact that Apple has now also removed an archival app like Eyes Up indicates the company is expanding its criteria beyond just apps that provide real-time tracking of ICE activities. Google is also taking similar actions on its Play Store platform. The company recently removed an app known as Red Dot, which also mapped ICE operations, explaining that such apps violate policies by sharing the location of what it considers a vulnerable group.
