Apple will allow third-party app stores in unexpected cases for NFTs and cryptos

Tech giant Apple is preparing to allow third-party app stores on its devices to comply with new EU antitrust requirements, which could be seen as a big win for crypto and NFT app developers, at least in Europe.

Under the new rules, European customers will be able to download alternative app marketplaces outside of Apple’s proprietary App Store, allowing them to download apps that go outside of Apple’s 30% commissions and app restrictions, according to a Dec. 13 Bloomberg report citing those who are familiar with the matter.

Currently, Apple has strict rules for NFT apps that practically force users to go through in-app purchases that are subject to Apple’s 30% commission, while apps are not allowed to support cryptocurrency payments.

Apple’s enforcement of the rule led to a block on Coinbase’s app update on Dec. 1 when Apple wanted to “collect 30% of the gas fee” through in-app purchases, which is “clearly not possible,” according to Coin base.

They then claimed that Apple wanted the wallet to disable NFT transactions if they could not be made through the in-app purchase system.

Alex Salnikov, co-founder of NFT marketplace Rarible tweeted on Dec. 13 in response to news that a “crypto app store” could be built and would be a “good candidate” for a venture capital-backed startup.

Apple’s move to open up the ecosystem is a response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act which aims to regulate so-called “gatekeepers” and ensure that platforms behave fairly with parts of the measures allowing “third parties to interact with the gatekeeper’s own services”.

It will apply from and including May 2023, with companies having to meet the requirements in full by 2024.

Apple has not decided whether it will comply with a part of the law that allows developers to install alternative payment systems in apps that do not involve Apple. if it complies, it can open payment systems that allow cryptocurrencies.

Related: LBRY claims Apple forced it to censor certain terms amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Under review by the tech giant, security requirements for software outside the store require verification by Apple, for example, in an effort to protect users from insecure apps.

The changes in Apple’s closed ecosystem will only apply within the EU, other regions will have to adopt similar laws as the proposed Open App Markets Act in the US Congress from Senators Marsha Blackburn and Richard Blumenthal.