Apple has recently made significant updates to its application encryption and cryptocurrency-related rules, the following are key content analyses:
1. Relaxation of Application Encryption Rules
Apple has updated the iOS App Store review guidelines, relaxing restrictions on developers in the US App Store, specifically reflected in:
Support for External Payment Methods: Developers can integrate external payment interfaces into their applications, allowing users to purchase non-fungible tokens (NFTs) through third-party markets.
Integration of NFT Purchases with In-App Purchases: Game developers can use Apple's In-App Purchase (IAP) mechanism to sell NFTs or provide related services (such as minting, listing, transferring), but the use of other payment methods or directing users to other ecosystems is prohibited.
2. Restrictions on Cryptocurrency Applications
Despite relaxing some rules, Apple's regulation of cryptocurrency applications remains strict, including:
Prohibition of Task Reward Tokens: Users cannot be rewarded with tokens for completing in-app tasks.
Prohibition of Initial Coin Offerings (ICO): Initial coin offerings cannot be conducted within the application.
Device Mining Restrictions: Users are prohibited from using devices for cryptocurrency mining.
3. Impact and Trends
Apple's adjustment has the following impacts on the industry:
NFT and Gaming Ecosystem: It provides a legitimate path for Web3 games to purchase NFTs through IAP but restricts external payments and cross-ecosystem competition. For example, premium content within games must be unlocked via in-app purchases rather than directly using NFTs.
Cryptocurrency Market: Approved exchanges can operate within the app, but Apple maintains ecosystem monopoly by restricting payment methods, weakening the competitiveness of third-party payment platforms.
User Privacy and Security: Despite the relaxation of rules, Apple still requires developers to adhere to strict privacy policies to safeguard user data. For example, applications are prohibited from obtaining sensitive behavioral signals (unless related to advertising purposes).
4. Future Outlook
Apple's adjustment of cryptocurrency policies reflects its attempt to balance technological innovation and user privacy protection. As the regulatory environment evolves, developers need to closely monitor changes in Apple’s policies to utilize new features (such as NFT and cryptocurrency integration) in a compliant manner.