Apple (AAPL, Financial) has lifted restrictions on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency purchases in iOS apps, marking a significant boost for the crypto market. A U.S. federal judge ruled that Apple violated a 2021 court order by unfairly controlling payment apps, specifically restricting those related to cryptocurrencies. The court ordered Apple to stop mandating developers to use its payment system and to eliminate the 30% "Apple tax" on in-app purchases. This move lowers development costs and offers developers and consumers greater freedom, potentially spurring growth and marketing in crypto apps.
Developers can now legally direct users to third-party payment platforms, saving high fees and making crypto transactions and NFT purchases more convenient. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, overseeing the case, criticized Apple's anti-competitive behavior in its antitrust lawsuit with Fortnite developer Epic Games. The court banned Apple from restricting external payment options and prohibited commissions on non-in-app purchases. Apple has announced its intention to appeal but has already notified developers that U.S. apps can include external links and allow users to browse NFT collections. This policy shift is expected to boost Bitcoin prices and further growth in the crypto market.
