Apple’s App Store Rule Reversal: Crypto Payments Now Allowed
In a landmark shift, Apple has changed its long-standing App Store payment policy, now allowing crypto-related app developers to guide users to external websites for transactions. This comes directly after a California court ruled in favor of Epic Games, forcing Apple to end its exclusive in-app purchase restrictions, including the infamous 30% commission. For the crypto world, this is massive. Developers of decentralized apps (DApps), NFT platforms, and blockchain-based games can now integrate crypto payments directly via external links—without Apple taking a cut.
Legal Push Forces Apple to Bend
The catalyst behind the change was the legal battle with Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite. In response to the ruling, Apple now permits external payment flows, which could reshape the mobile crypto ecosystem.
Tim Sweeney, Epic’s CEO, welcomed the ruling, saying,
This sentiment is echoed by Ariel Michaeli, CEO of Appfigures, who noted the ruling's potential to benefit mobile NFT-based games and marketplaces, many of which were previously restricted or penalized under Apple’s rigid policies.
Boosting On-Chain Activity and DApp Growth
Apple’s influence in the mobile space is undeniable. The expanded crypto payment avenues could result in higher adoption of major tokens like BTC, ETH, and SOL, as well as increased on-chain activity. Developers now have the freedom to build more crypto-native applications, provided they comply with essential requirements like KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) rules. This freedom to transact outside Apple’s ecosystem could lower entry barriers and improve user experience in Web3 mobile applications.
Regulatory Eyes Still Watching
While this is a win for decentralization and innovation, it doesn't mean Apple or developers are off the regulatory hook. Financial regulators—both in the U.S. and abroad—will continue to scrutinize crypto transactions, especially as mobile platforms open wider access. Still, Apple’s move signals a growing shift in the tech industry’s acceptance of blockchain-based finance, and could encourage other tech giants to follow suit.
