Apple Eases App Store Rules, Allowing Crypto Payments Through External Links
Apple has updated its App Store policy to allow developers of crypto-related apps to direct users to external websites for transactions—a major shift prompted by a recent court ruling in favor of Epic Games.
The policy change could lead to a surge in decentralized apps (DApps), NFT marketplaces, and other blockchain-based tools on iOS, as developers now have greater flexibility to integrate cryptocurrency payments outside Apple’s tightly controlled in-app purchase system.
Court Ruling Spurs Crypto-Friendly Shift
This move follows a California court’s order requiring Apple to lift restrictions on external payment methods, effectively weakening the company’s longstanding 30% commission—often referred to as the ”Apple tax.” The ruling is seen as a milestone for the crypto industry, which has long been constrained by Apple’s closed payment environment.
Developers can now embed crypto transactions directly or link out to third-party platforms, provided compliance measures like Know Your Customer (KYC) are met. This opens the door for a broader ecosystem of mobile crypto applications, including NFT games and wallets, to flourish on iOS.
Industry Reactions and Implications
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney welcomed the decision, stating that if Apple applies the policy globally without additional friction or fees, Epic would consider bringing Fortnite back to iOS and halting future legal action.
Ariel Michaeli, CEO of app intelligence firm Appfigures, noted that apps connecting to external NFT services will particularly benefit, adding that the update may reinvigorate mobile-based crypto innovation.
Featured image from: thestreet.com