US Judge Orders Apple to Lift Restrictions, Allowing Crypto Payments and NFT Features on iOS Apps

May 3, 2025 – A US federal judge has ruled that Apple must eliminate its restrictions that previously blocked app developers from linking to external payment options. The decision, handed down by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers on April 30, marks a significant win for crypto developers building on iOS, as they can now integrate direct crypto payments and NFT features in their apps without Apple’s interference.

Ruling Comes After Long-Running Legal Battle

The ruling stems from Apple’s ongoing legal dispute with Epic Games, which had challenged Apple’s App Store practices as anti-competitive. In 2021, the court issued an injunction requiring Apple to allow developers to offer alternative payment methods to users.

However, Apple’s response included the introduction of restrictive measures, such as warning screens and complicated redirects, discouraging users from using off-app payment systems. The court found these actions to be in violation of the injunction, deeming them as new barriers that perpetuated anti-competitive behavior.

A Victory for Crypto Developers

This ruling is a key development for crypto developers who had long struggled with Apple’s policies. iOS apps can now directly accept crypto payments, enabling smoother integration of cryptocurrency into the mobile app ecosystem. Furthermore, developers can now offer NFT functionality within their apps without needing to redirect users to external browsers, streamlining the user experience significantly.

Implications for NFTs and Mobile User Experience

With the ability to integrate in-app NFT purchases, developers can create new opportunities for NFT-based functionality on iOS. This removes friction in the purchasing process, making it easier for users to engage with NFTs directly from their mobile devices.

Additionally, this ruling could simplify the use of NFTs to gate app features. Previously, Apple restricted such practices, aiming to prevent developers from bypassing App Store fees. Now, developers can more easily create and sell in-app assets, further embedding Web3 technology into the mobile app space.

Challenges Remain for Crypto Onboarding

While the ruling makes it easier for developers to integrate crypto payments and NFTs, challenges still exist. Fiat-to-crypto onboarding remains a hurdle for many users, as they must still complete Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures to purchase tokens before engaging in the crypto ecosystem. Despite these challenges, the court’s decision significantly lowers the barriers for integrating cryptocurrency and NFT technology into iOS apps.

This ruling is a major step forward for Web3 developers and marks a significant shift in Apple’s approach to crypto payments and NFTs on the App Store. With the removal of restrictions, the future of mobile crypto adoption appears brighter, with more opportunities for developers and users alike.