Apple Loosens App Store Rules — Big Win for Crypto Apps, NFTs, and External Payments

Big news for crypto and app developers! On May 2, 2025, Apple officially revised its U.S. App Store guidelines, and this is a major move for anyone dealing with NFTs, DeFi, or running payment systems through apps.

Why the sudden change? It all goes back to a 2021 legal battle with Epic Games. A federal court recently ruled that Apple was violating an earlier injunction that required it to let developers link out to alternative payment methods—basically, giving users a way to bypass Apple’s usual 30% commission.

What’s New in Apple’s App Store Guidelines?

With the revised rules now in place, developers in the U.S. can finally:

• Add buttons and external links in their apps for purchases.
• Skip Apple’s approval process for these links.
• Avoid the hefty 15–30% commission Apple used to charge.
• Use third-party payment processors like Stripe.

That means more control, more freedom, and yes—more revenue for crypto app creators.

Crypto Industry Reacts: A Win for NFTs and DeFi

If you’re into the latest crypto news, you’ll know how big this is. The update is being seen as a major turning point. Apps related to non-fungible tokens (NFTs), kryptovaluta trading, and wallet services can now process payments without getting hit by Apple’s fees.

A post on May 3 summed it up well: “Mobile crypto just got unleashed.” That’s exactly how many in the space are feeling.

This change also gives a boost to apps working with new virtual currency and potentially supports innovation around BRICS currency news, as developers have more flexibility to integrate decentralized features.

But There’s a Catch…

Not everything is perfect yet. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• The update only applies to the U.S. App Store.
• Apple still bans apps involved in cryptocurrency mining or initial coin offerings (ICOs).
• Apple said it disagrees with the ruling and plans to appeal, so the policy might change again in the future.

Also, while big platforms may benefit immediately, smaller developers might struggle to build user trust when using external payment methods. That’s especially true in the crypto space, where security is everything.

Looking Ahead: Is Global Change Coming?

This update isn’t just about Apple—it’s part of a bigger trend. Around the world, governments are putting pressure on tech giants to open up. For example, Europe’s Digital Markets Act is pushing companies like Apple to be fairer and flexible.

So far, this is a huge step forward in the U.S., and it could pave the way for similar rule changes in other countries. But until then, global crypto projects still face limitations.

Final Thoughts

If you’re building or using a crypto app in the U.S., this is one of the most exciting updates in recent times. It removes a big roadblock and opens up new possibilities for running payment options, supporting new virtual currencies, and keeping more of your revenue.

Stay tuned for more of the latest crypto news, especially if you're watching what happens next with Apple, BRICS currency, and the growing push for decentralized finance on mobile platforms.