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MetaMask Temporarily Removed from Apple's App Store Over Policy Violation

MetaMask's short-lived removal from Apple's App Store raises concerns and rekindles past tech platform disputes.

Mon, 16 Oct 2023, 08:13 am UTC

On October 14, the popular Ethereum wallet known as MetaMask briefly vanished from Apple's App Store, prompting discussions about its potential permanent removal. This platform, which links users to a variety of Web3 decentralized applications, boasts a user base of over 30 million globally.

As the day unfolded, Apple device owners found that not only was the MetaMask app missing from the App Store, but they couldn't even download it directly from MetaMask's official site.

A representative from MetaMask clarified that this disappearance had no ties to any security threats or harmful activities. The representative stated, "MetaMask's current unavailability on the App Store is not tied to any harmful intent or action. Our team is fervently working on rectifying this situation promptly. It's vital to understand that this poses no security risks, and users need not take any specific measures. The app's functionality is not the cause of this issue."

The underlying reason for MetaMask's absence likely stems from Apple's stringent service policies. The tech company's rules expressly prohibit apps from operating "unrelated background activities," which can encompass cryptocurrency mining.

However, MetaMask reassured its users that this removal was a temporary hiccup. A representative confidently remarked that they expected MetaMask to return to the App Store in no time. They also emphasized the importance of reporting any imitation MetaMask apps on the App Store.

Interestingly, this isn't MetaMask's first run-in with major tech platforms. In December 2019, Google Play temporarily removed MetaMask, accusing it of breaching the platform's financial service regulations. Google pointed to their rule against cryptocurrency mining on mobile devices and swiftly dismissed MetaMask's request to lift the suspension.

Another notable hurdle for app developers comes from Apple's stipulation demanding a 30% cut of transaction profits. This so-called "Apple tax" has proven challenging for cryptocurrency firms, especially those desiring to provide iOS users access to buy nonfungible tokens.

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