Apple has revised its App Store policies in the United States, marking a significant shift that could transform how cryptocurrency-related apps operate on iOS. The update, which took effect on May 2, 2025, allows developers to include links and buttons directing users to external payment platforms—bypassing Apple’s longstanding commission-based system.
The move follows a federal court’s enforcement of a 2021 injunction issued during the high-profile antitrust lawsuit between Apple and Epic Games. The ruling found Apple in violation of the court’s order, which required the tech giant to permit external payment options within iOS apps.
Until now, Apple charged developers a commission of up to 30% on in-app transactions and discouraged external payments by deploying so-called “scare screens” warning users of potential risks. With the revised guidelines, U.S. developers can integrate external links for digital purchases without prior approval from Apple and without incurring its commission fees.
This policy shift is being hailed as a major breakthrough by the crypto and Web3 communities. Applications involving non-fungible tokens (NFTs), decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, and digital wallets are now positioned to retain more revenue per transaction—potentially increasing earnings by 15–30%.
Developers also gain greater flexibility in choosing third-party payment processors, such as Stripe, which are widely used for crypto transactions. The change could encourage broader mobile adoption of blockchain-based technologies, which previously struggled under Apple’s stringent payment rules.
“Mobile crypto just got unleashed,” one user posted on social media, echoing the optimistic tone from within the community. Others noted the move could fuel growth in NFT marketplaces and boost mainstream adoption of decentralized apps (dApps).
However, not all reactions were positive. Critics pointed out that the revised rules currently apply only to the U.S. App Store, limiting their impact on global crypto projects. Additionally, Apple continues to prohibit apps that support cryptocurrency mining or initial coin offerings (ICOs), signaling that its stance on crypto remains cautious.
The change mirrors broader regulatory pressures around the world. The European Union’s Digital Markets Act and similar legislation elsewhere are pushing tech giants to open their ecosystems and promote fair competition. Despite the update, Apple maintains that it disagrees with the court’s ruling and intends to appeal, leaving the door open for future legal and policy developments.
For now, the update represents a clear step forward for the U.S. crypto sector. Yet, widespread adoption of external payment systems may still face hurdles—especially among smaller developers concerned about user trust and security outside Apple’s payment framework.
As the digital economy evolves, Apple’s revised policy may mark the beginning of a new chapter for mobile-based crypto innovation—one that’s still being written.
