Banned Parler App Makes a Comeback in the App Store, But Who is the Owner Now?

Following its removal from the App Store due to its alleged involvement in the planning of the Capitol attack in 2021, the Parler app has made a controversial return recently.

While the Android version is yet to be reinstated on Google Play, the iOS version is now available for download. However, many are wondering what holds true about the app's ownership and moderation policies.

A Brief History of Parler

Parler emerged in 2018 as a platform promoting "free speech," positioning itself as an alternative to mainstream social media. It quickly gained traction among users banned from platforms like Twitter for posting hate speech and threats. However, its association with the Capitol insurrection tainted its reputation, leading to its removal from app stores and subsequent shutdown by its hosting provider, Amazon Web Services.

Challenges in Moderation

One of the key criticisms leveled against Parler was its lax approach to content moderation. The platform became a haven for extremist views and hate speech, with users openly advocating violence and spreading offensive content.

Despite pledges to address these issues, Parler struggled to enforce effective moderation, leading to its removal from app stores on multiple occasions.

In 2021, the app successfully returned to the App Store. However, the Cupertino giant was quick to deny its entry, spoiling its comeback.

"We have received numerous complaints regarding objectionable content in your Parler service, accusations that the Parler app was used to plan, coordinate, and facilitate the illegal activities in Washington D.C. on January 6, 2021 that led (among other things) to loss of life, numerous injuries, and the destruction of property. The app also appears to continue to be used to plan and facilitate yet further illegal and dangerous activities," Apple said at the time.

Mystery Shrouding Around Parler's New Owner

Recent reports indicate that Parler has reappeared on the App Store under new ownership.

As 9to5Mac reports, Ryan Rhodes, the company's new CEO, claims that significant changes have been made to the app's moderation policies. However, doubts persist regarding the transparency of the ownership structure.

While Rhodes acknowledges partial ownership, he refrains from disclosing further details, citing privacy concerns.

Questions Surrounding 'Shady' Management

Concerns about Parler's management team add to the uncertainty surrounding its comeback. Rhodes mentioned the existence of a management team on the platform's website, but its current status remains unclear. The lack of transparency raises doubts about the app's operational stability and long-term viability.

Despite Parler's assertion that it is "back for good," skepticism remains regarding its future prospects. The app's turbulent history and ongoing controversies cast doubt on its ability to regain user trust and navigate the online discourse on the internet.

As the app re-enters the fray, it faces the daunting task of rebuilding its reputation and addressing concerns about content moderation and user safety. This could be hard especially for Parler that's painted with controversies of the past.

The return of the Parler app to the App Store marks a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding online speech and platform accountability. While its comeback signals a second chance for the embattled platform, it also underscores the challenges inherent in balancing free expression with responsible content moderation.

Parler is here—for now, but it won't be long for Apple to address its existence. It's always a gamble for it to thrive in the App Store behind the tech giant's close watch.