#AppleCryptoUpdate **Apple's Recent Crypto-Related Updates (May 2025)**
### 1. **End of the "Apple Tax" for Crypto Apps**
A landmark U.S. court ruling has prohibited Apple from imposing its 30% commission on in-app purchases made outside its ecosystem. Developers can now freely direct users to external payment systems, such as crypto wallets or NFT marketplaces, without fees or restrictions. This decision, effective immediately, overturns Apple’s long-standing policy, which had forced crypto apps to either inflate prices or remove features to comply with App Store rules.
- **Impact**: Crypto apps like Coinbase Wallet and Magic Eden can now enable direct NFT and token sales via external websites, improving user experience and monetization.
- **Industry Response**: Commentators like Alex Masmej called the ruling "absolutely huge for crypto," while Epic Games’ Tim Sweeney announced plans to relaunch *Fortnite* on the App Store under the new framework.
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### 2. **Apple’s Compliance and Passive-Aggressive Tone**
Apple updated its App Store guidelines to comply with the court order but used language described as "passive aggressive" by industry observers. Key changes include allowing links to external NFT collections, payment systems, and websites without requiring special entitlements.
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### 3. **Tim Cook’s Personal Bitcoin Holdings vs. Corporate Strategy**
While Apple CEO Tim Cook disclosed owning Bitcoin as part of his personal investment portfolio, the company maintains a cautious stance toward crypto integration. Apple prioritizes stability and security, avoiding direct engagement with cryptocurrencies despite allowing crypto-related apps on the App Store.
- **Contrast with Competitors**: Unlike Tesla or Block (formerly Square), Apple has not invested corporate funds in crypto or accepted Bitcoin as payment, citing environmental concerns and brand alignment.
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### 4. **Broader Implications for Crypto Adoption**
- **Mobile-First Growth**: With two-thirds of e-commerce occurring on mobile, eliminating Apple’s 30% fee remov
