Apple has revised its U.S. App Store guidelines, allowing developers to include links to external payment systems. This change has been welcomed by the cryptocurrency community, as it enables NFT marketplaces, crypto wallets, and DeFi platforms to bypass Apple’s traditional fee structure.
These updates, set to take effect on May 2, 2025, follow a federal court ruling that found Apple in violation of an injunction stemming from the 2021 Epic Games antitrust lawsuit. The court mandated that Apple permit developers to direct users to alternative payment methods outside the App Store, where the tech giant had previously imposed commissions as high as 30%.
Under the new rules, U.S.-based developers can integrate digital purchase buttons or links that lead to external websites without requiring approval from Apple or paying associated commissions. This eliminates the previous practice of Apple charging significant fees on such transactions and displaying warning screens cautioning users about the risks of external payments.
What This Means for Crypto and NFT Applications
The crypto industry views this update as a critical development. Applications handling non-fungible tokens (NFTs), decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, and wallet services can now avoid Apple’s fees, potentially increasing their revenue per transaction by 15% to 30%. Developers are also free to integrate third-party payment processors like Stripe, offering greater flexibility for native cryptocurrency transactions.
This shift not only reduces operational costs but also encourages innovation and broader adoption of blockchain-based services within the iOS ecosystem.
Mixed Reactions from the Community
Reactions on social media have been largely positive. One user noted on May 3, 2025, that “mobile crypto has just been unlocked,” emphasizing the newfound advantages for NFT and DeFi applications. However, some caution remains. Critics highlight that the update applies only to the U.S. App Store, limiting its immediate global impact. Additionally, Apple continues to prohibit applications that facilitate initial coin offerings (ICOs) or cryptocurrency mining.
Broader Context and Antitrust Trends
This move aligns with global antitrust trends, including the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which pressures major tech firms to open their ecosystems to greater competition. Apple has expressed disagreement with the court ruling and plans to appeal, leaving room for potential policy adjustments in the future.
Despite this progress, challenges remain for wider implementation. Smaller developers may face user trust issues when directing customers to external payment platforms, and the global expansion of these rules depends heavily on Apple’s future policy decisions.
For those interested in exploring compliant crypto tools and platforms under these new guidelines, you can discover secure external payment solutions that align with updated store policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes did Apple make to its App Store guidelines?
Apple now allows U.S. developers to include links and buttons指向 external payment systems for digital purchases, without paying commissions to Apple or requiring its approval. This change specifically benefits crypto, NFT, and DeFi applications.
When will the new App Store rules take effect?
The updated guidelines are scheduled to take effect on May 2, 2025, following a federal court ruling related to antitrust practices.
Do these changes apply worldwide?
No, currently the revisions only apply to the U.S. version of the App Store. Developers outside the U.S. must still comply with Apple’s standard commission and payment rules.
Can apps now promote ICOs or crypto mining?
No, Apple continues to prohibit applications that facilitate initial coin offerings (ICOs) or cryptocurrency mining activities, in line with its existing developer policies.
How might this affect cryptocurrency transaction costs?
By avoiding Apple’s commission fees—which ranged from 15% to 30%—developers and users may see significantly lower costs per transaction when using external payment links.
What should developers consider when using external payment systems?
Developers should prioritize user security and transparency when redirecting to external payment platforms to maintain trust and compliance with financial regulations. You can explore more strategies for integrating external payments smoothly and securely.