Apple Threatens Removal Of Apps That Use NFTs To Unlock Contents

Apple has vowed to bring down the hammer on applications that use NFTs to unlock features or other contents in the apps. The tech giant confirmed the change in a recently published update to its App Store Review Guidelines. While additional features from NFTs are not allowed, they are still allowed to exist within apps on the pp Store, according to the update.

This may seem controversial to NFT users. It may also discourage many users from buying NFTs since the primary use for them is to unlock the content. For instance, Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs and Moonbirds offer exclusive access to various communication channels and merchandise to holders.

Developers Are Banned From Creating External Links

The Review Guidelines are vital because they allow developers to see what they can or cannot publish to the App Store. Any developer or creator that violates such policies may have their app rejected or removed.

Apart from unlocking features with NFTs, developers are also not allowed to create external links, buttons, or other calls to action. The only feature that is now possible is the in-app purchases, which seem to be to the benefit of the App Store. The ban means that users can no longer go behind App Store to buy NFTs via other platforms.

Last month, a report by The Information revealed that Apple’s fee policies are keeping creators and marketplaces away from its ecosystem. In some cases, the strict policies are leading them to completely forego NFT integrations.

The Update Will Discourage Web3 Integrations

In a tweet, Galaxy posted that some game publishers are still cautious about Web3 integrations as Apple continues its 30% tax on in-app purchases. This has held back any significant growth within the NFT and Web3 space. With the latest limitation on the use of NFT on the App Store, the lack of enthusiasm is likely going to continue, as experts have observed.

Since Apple’s “in-app purchase” service doesn’t cover crypto payments, it would be improbable that apps that offer NFT mints will accept crypto in return. It would be the first time Apple is providing specific rules for NFTs in its App store guidelines.

The new policy update also prevents apps from using their platform to unlock functionality or content, such as QR codes, augmented reality markers, and cryptocurrency wallets.