Recently, Apple adjusted its cryptocurrency and NFT-related policies in the App Store, attracting widespread attention from the crypto community. These changes are mainly driven by regulatory pressure and developer requests, marking a subtle easing of Apple's policies in the digital asset space. However, while these adjustments relax certain restrictions, they also strengthen control over trading paths and fees. Below is an analysis of this situation:
Main changes in Apple's cryptocurrency policy
1. Allow NFT trading, but must go through Apple's payment system
Apple now allows apps to mint, list, and transfer NFTs through its in-app purchase (IAP) system. Users can view their NFT collections within the app, but these NFTs cannot unlock additional features of the app. Additionally, apps must not contain links or buttons directing users to external purchase channels; all transactions must be completed within the App Store and are subject to Apple's maximum 30% commission.
2. Cryptocurrency trading must go through approved exchanges
Apple allows apps to buy and sell cryptocurrency through officially approved exchanges in countries or regions where they have the appropriate licenses. This means that only official apps from large exchanges like Coinbase and Binance can offer cryptocurrency trading features in the App Store.
3. Mining on devices is prohibited, and incentive-based marketing is restricted
Apple prohibits apps from conducting cryptocurrency mining activities on devices, citing that such operations can degrade device performance and reduce battery life. Additionally, Apple also prohibits apps from rewarding cryptocurrency through task completion (such as downloading other apps, inviting users, social media sharing, etc.) to prevent fraudulent activities.
Impact on the crypto community
1. Growth of Web3 applications is limited
Although Apple has relaxed restrictions in certain areas, its strict control over trading paths and high commissions still pose challenges for Web3 applications on the iOS platform. For example, the NFT marketplace Magic Eden has stopped offering purchasing features in its iOS app and only retains browsing functionality.
2. Developers seek alternative solutions
To avoid Apple's high commissions, some developers have started exploring ways to conduct transactions through external browsers. For example, Stripe has launched a feature that allows iOS apps to make payments through browsers like Safari, helping developers bypass Apple's payment system.
3. Regulatory pressure drives policy adjustments
These policy changes by Apple are partly due to pressure from regulatory bodies. For instance, a recent U.S. court ruling stated that Apple cannot restrict developers from guiding users to use external payment methods and is prohibited from charging a 27% commission on external transactions.
Summary
Although Apple has loosened its policies in the cryptocurrency and NFT fields, its core business model still focuses on controlling trading paths and collecting commissions. For Web3 projects hoping to develop on the iOS platform, they still face Apple's strict regulations and high costs. However, with increasing regulatory pressure and ongoing protests from developers, Apple may further adjust its policies in the future to adapt to the evolving digital asset landscape.
