Apple has recently released a new software update that includes new App Store rules. New rules state that apps are allowed to list, mint, transfer, and view NFTs but cannot unlock any new features or additional content.
Related: Apple’s App Store grossed more than twice as Google Play
Apple has not integrated crypto payments into App Store but charges a %30 commission fee on in app NFT purchases and bans any apps leading to 3rd party sites that sell, buy or mint NFTs.
Guideline update states “Apps may use in-app purchase to sell and sell services related to non-fungible tokens (NFTs), such as minting, listing, and transferring. Apps may allow users to view their own NFTs, provided that NFT ownership does not unlock features or functionality within the app. Apps may allow users to browse NFT collections owned by others, provided that the apps may not include buttons, external links, or other calls to action that direct customers to purchasing mechanisms other than in-app purchase.”
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney accused Apple of “Killing all NFT app business” and said, “Apple must be stopped.”
Apple’s App Store is currently a Web2 service and is very protective about its ecosystem. App Store users can only purchase NFTs through App Store’s payment models. Apple also changed its guideline about social media boosts. Boosts now can only be purchased by Apple’s in-app purchase systems.
