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Apple crypto policy updates now permit NFT purchases with external links and mandate in-app payments through Apple’s system, reshaping mobile blockchain integration.
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Developers gain flexibility with reduced commission concerns and new NFT display features, but must still navigate restrictions on mining and token rewards.
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This policy shift marks a pivotal moment for iOS, balancing Apple’s control with the decentralized promise of Web3 and opening doors for mainstream crypto adoption.
Digital assets have penetrated each industry, introducing new revenue streams, security vulnerabilities, and concepts that require most industries to adapt or risk becoming obsolete.
The recent seismic shifts in Apple crypto policies exemplify this trend as the tech giants gear up for better and more open avenues for NFT integration guidelines and decentralized finance applications.
Let’s dive into the nuances of new policy and its rippling effects on NFT artists, developers and the Web3 Ecosystem.
Apple Crypto Policy: A New Era for Crypto Developers and Users
The journey toward a more open Apple crypto policy began in August 2020 when Epic Games, developers of the popular game Fortnite, initiated a legal battle against Apple.
The crux of the dispute centred around Apple’s requirement for developers to use its in-app payment system, which imposed a 30% commission on transactions. Epic Games argued that these rules were anti-competitive and stifled innovation.
An accommodative Apple crypto policy was originally unheard of, given that the mobile tech giant has strict regulations on in-app payments and external transaction links.
As a result, the tech giant has faced various legal battles over its App Store rules, including its restrictions on NFT purchases on iOS and other blockchain applications.
In 2020, Epic Games launched a full legal battle against Apple, centring their case around Apple‘s requirements for developers to use its in-app payments system. This was a major issue given how it imposed a 30% commission on transactions, an absurd comparison to DeFi’s 1-2% fee.
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In April, US District Court Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple had willfully violated a 2021 injunction designed to prevent anti-competitive conduct.
The court flexed its legal power and mandated the tech titan to remove restrictions on apps allowing payments outside its ecosystem without additional fees.
This landmark decision will now force Tech Titan to update its Apple crypto policy and develop accommodating guidelines for the rapid adoption of Web3.
NFT integration guidelines: What Developers Need to Know
As per court proceedings, Apple will also update its NFT integration guidelines, permitting apps to use in-app purchases for NFT-related services such as printing, sales and transfers.
This new approach enables users to view their NFT within Apple apps, and developers can display collections owned by others.
Perhaps most significant is the ability of the US App Store to offer external links directing users to websites outside the platform, marking the Apple Store as a prime marketing strategy.
Despite this, several limitations are still present. Apps cannot conduct crypto mining services, offer token-based rewards, or accept crypto as a direct payment method within the application.
NFT purchases on iOS are allowed, but in-app payments must go through Apple’s native system
Apple Crypto Integration: Opportunities and Challenges
The ruling has relaxed Apple crypto integration policies, presenting new opportunities for developers.
The ability to offer direct payments without dreading Apple’s 30% commission is among the highlights of this milestone.
It encourages users to adopt new business models and marketing strategies surrounding Apple’s vast user base. In addition, it promotes transparent communication with users via the power of blockchain.
This change offers wider choices, reduced costs, and new features and products, rapidly accelerating the adoption of decentralized solutions in mainstream platforms.
The ability to facilitate NFT purchases on iOS, albeit through external links, is an unprecedented win for the industry.
It introduces NFT to an entirely untapped market that is hinging on the security and trust that Apple continues to uphold. The creative opportunities provide open avenues for digital ownership and monetization, especially given the high rise of content creators.

This policy shift marks a pivotal moment for iOS, balancing Apple’s control with the decentralized promise of Web3 and opening doors for mainstream crypto adoption.[Photo: Reuters]
The changes in the Apple crypto app payment system have far-reaching implications for developers. With restrictive barriers lowered, Apple has lost some of its control over in-app transactions.
Developers and even crypto app developments for beginners are easier as Apple has opened its doors after years of total control.
This still requires most to be familiar with the new Apple crypto policy to stay in line with any alteration that might affect the NFT integration guidelines.
Developing Mobile Apps for Blockchain on iOS: A Strategic Approach
As developing mobile apps for blockchain on iOS becomes easier with Apple’s more open approach, we can expect an increase in crypto-related innovations on the platform.
This includes leveraging cross-chain compatibility and integrating layer 2 solutions, which have mastered the art of scalability.
Collaboration with legal experts and blockchain specialists can help developers navigate the complex landscape of Apple crypto integration and NFT integration guidelines.
A New Era for Crypto on iOS
The recent changes to Apple’s crypto policy signal a new era of crypto and NFT integrations within Apple. The tech giant has dived into the metaverse, but incorporating digital assets is still untouched, given its mobile payment history.
As the legal battle continues and regulatory frameworks evolve, the crypto industry stands at a crossroads of innovation and transformation.
Developers must learn how to offer more flexible payment options that capitalize on the various advantages of Web3 while still offering an engaging and valuable user experience,
For users, this change signifies a monumental shift from high commission costs of 30% to fees as low as 2%, giving greater accessibility to blockchain platforms.
With these updates in place, Apple is poised to lead a new chapter in how mobile platforms interact with blockchain, NFTs, and other crypto services.