In a landmark decision, Apple has officially removed its prohibition on in-app cryptocurrency payments for iOS apps in the United States, effective May 3, 2025. This pivotal change—sparked by a U.S. District Judge's ruling in the Epic Games antitrust case—signals a major leap toward mainstream crypto adoption and could redefine digital transactions on iOS platforms.
Why Apple Changed Its Crypto Policy
The shift follows a federal court ruling that Apple violated a 2021 injunction by blocking developers from steering users to external payment methods. Key outcomes:
- Apple can no longer impose its 27% fee on out-of-system purchases
- Developers may now link to third-party websites for payments
- Updated App Store guidelines permit direct crypto transactions (Bitcoin, Ethereum) and NFT marketplace integrations
This reversal ends years of restrictive policies that mandated Apple's in-app purchase system (30% commission), previously rendering crypto payments unviable.
👉 How this change impacts Bitcoin adoption
What This Means for Crypto and Web3
1. Developer Opportunities
- Direct integration of Bitcoin/ETH payments in apps
- Expanded functionality for exchanges like Coinbase/Binance
- Potential surge in iOS-tailored DeFi/NFT apps
2. User Benefits
- Seamless access to DeFi platforms and NFT marketplaces
- Lower transaction costs (no Apple commission)
- Increased flexibility in managing digital assets
3. Market Implications
The crypto community has hailed this as a "game-changer," coinciding with renewed interest in Bitcoin ($62K as of May 2025). While adoption could accelerate, success hinges on:
- Developer innovation in app creation
- User education around crypto payments
Persistent Challenges
Apple maintains certain restrictions:
❌ No crypto rewards for app downloads
❌ Ban on ICOs and device mining
❌ Compliance with evolving state/federal laws
Critics note Apple's history of ecosystem control—future policy adjustments could reintroduce barriers.
FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
Q: Can I now buy Bitcoin directly through any iOS app?
A: Yes, if the developer integrates external payment options compliant with Apple's updated guidelines.
Q: Will Apple still take a cut from crypto transactions?
A: No—payments processed outside Apple's system avoid commissions.
Q: Are there risks with third-party crypto links in apps?
A: Apple requires developers to ensure security, but users should verify app legitimacy.
👉 Explore secure crypto wallets for iOS
The Bigger Picture: Decentralization vs. Corporate Control
While this policy democratizes crypto access, it raises questions:
- Does Apple's involvement align with Web3's decentralized ideals?
- Will regulatory hurdles slow adoption?
The coming months will reveal whether this marks a true paradigm shift or a temporary concession in Apple's guarded approach to innovation.