- Apple is using App Store guidelines to profit and reduce use of apps in crypto, NFT
- Coinbase accused Apple of making it eliminate NFT transfers from its App Store app
Apple Inc. appears to be under the loop for its app store practices again, but this time, the focus is on the expanding sectors of cryptocurrency trading and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), Coinpedia reported.
Government requests detailed info
On July 28, House Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) and Jan Schakowsky wrote Apple CEO Tim Cook a letter requesting detailed information about its App Store policies. They drew attention to the possible limitations the policies could exert on the progress of crypto and blockchain technologies.
Apple is accused of profiteering
The reps noted that it seemed the tech giant levied its App Store guidelines to profiteer and reduce the utilization of apps in crypto, NFT, and other blockchain technology. They drew attention to the fact that Coinbase has previously accused Apple of making it eliminate NFT transfers from its Apple app. Similar accusations have been made by many NFT companies, who claim Apple made them launch “Lite” versions of their apps.
These accusations come amid broader concerns that the App Store’s policies can obstruct American leadership in blockchain and other emerging technologies.
Tech giant has 2 weeks to respond
The reps asked 21 detailed questions, which the tech giant must answer by August 14, 2023. These range from general inquiries about the company’s app admittance policies related to security and data privacy to more specific ones. The latter include whether Apple has explored Solana’s safe element feature and if it intends to develop apps using blockchain-related technologies.
Surprising reactions from the crypto community?
Crypto Council CEO Sheila Warren expressed support for the government’s queries. She believes they show cryptocurrency is not a political issue. Both Republicans and Democrats are getting serious about America’s role in future development of the blockchain and cryptocurrency market.
Coinbase CLO Paul Grewal finds it’s time Americans reconsider their approach to digital currencies and the technologies behind them.
Contributors
