Apple pulls "gay cure" iPhone app

An iPhone and iPad app promising "freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus" is no longer available on Apple's app store.

The app, which went on sale 15 February, was backed by a Christian group called Exodus International, which bills itself itself as a global ministry for "those struggling with unwanted same-sex attraction."

More 150,000 people have signed their names to an online petition demanding the app's removal.

"Apple doesn't allow racist or anti-Semitic apps in its app store, yet it is giving the green light to an app targeting vulnerable LGBT youth with the message that their sexual orientation is a "sin that will make your heart sick" and a "counterfeit." This is a double standard that has the potential for devastating consequences," the text reads.

Throughout this furor, Apple has stuck with its usual policy by not commenting. But the president of Exodus International has confirmed Apple's move in a tweet. "It's official, the @ExodusInl App is no longer in the @AppStore. Incredibly disappointing. Watch out, it could happen to you," wrote Alan Chambers. (His organization also issued a press release.

Meanwhile, the organization behind the petition, said this morning it plans to maintain the online petition until Apple issues an official statement. "Until they do, it's important that we keep up the pressure, so that Apple hears loud and clear that "ex-gay" therapy deserve no place in the App Store," according to Truth Wins Out.