In a groundbreaking move, Apple has given the green light to SaruTobi, the first iOS game to integrate native Bitcoin microtransactions using the Lightning Network. This decision signals a potential shift in Apple’s traditionally restrictive stance on alternative payment systems—a change likely influenced by tightening regulations like the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) and legal battles such as Epic v. Apple.
Developed by ZBD, SaruTobi—a game originally launched in 2013 but later pulled from the App Store for its Bitcoin integration—has made a triumphant return. This time, it leverages Lightning’s instant, low-cost transactions to enable real-money in-game purchases without the usual App Store restrictions. Players can now spend tiny amounts (as low as a few cents) to retry levels or unlock power-ups, all while maintaining seamless gameplay.
A New Era for In-Game Payments:
Unlike traditional in-app purchases, which often force developers into rigid pricing tiers and surrender 30% to Apple, Bitcoin microtransactions offer unprecedented flexibility.
🔹 Frictionless Spending: Payments happen instantly, without interrupting gameplay.
🔹 Earn as You Play: Players can accumulate sats (tiny Bitcoin units) by completing in-game challenges and later use them for upgrades.
🔹 Developer Freedom: No middlemen, no arbitrary fee structures—just direct, programmable value flow.
André Neves, ZBD’s Co-Founder and CTO, calls this a "historic shift," stating: "Bitcoin isn’t just a payment method—it’s a tool to reinvent how games monetize and engage players. The tech was always there; what changed was the regulatory pressure forcing Apple to open up."
What This Means for the Future:
With SaruTobi now live, the door is open for more Bitcoin-powered apps on iOS. Could this lead to a wave of innovation where games reward players in real money? Could we see entirely new business models where in-game economies operate independently of Apple’s fees?
One thing’s certain: the rules of mobile gaming monetization are changing—and Bitcoin is at the center of it.
Would you play a game that lets you earn and spend real Bitcoin? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
DYOR No Financial advice!
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