The popular Ethereum wallet MetaMask mysteriously disappeared from Apple’s App Store on October 14, leaving its massive user base in limbo. The unexpected removal raised concerns among cryptocurrency enthusiasts, as MetaMask is an essential tool for accessing a wide range of Web3 decentralized applications (DApps). With over 30 million users worldwide, the application’s sudden absence sent shockwaves through the crypto community.
Reports began circulating on October 14, when alarmed Apple users noticed that the MetaMask app had vanished from the App Store, and attempts to download the application from MetaMask’s website proved futile. Fearing potential security issues or malicious activity, users took to social media platforms to express their concerns. However, a spokesperson for MetaMask was quick to dispel these fears, clarifying that the issue was unrelated to any security breach:
π FYI: We’re aware that MetaMask isn’t currently available for download on the App Store. π This is and not related to anything malicious and our team is working hard to resolve it ASAP.
β MetaMask π¦π«° (@MetaMask) October 14, 2023
The spokesperson’s assurance quelled immediate security concerns, but the reason for MetaMask’s removal was soon attributed to Apple’s stringent service policies. The tech giant’s guidelines prohibit apps from running “unrelated background processes,” including cryptocurrency mining. This rule not only affected MetaMask but also recently led to the suspension of the MetaMask Android client by the Google Play App Store.
Furthermore, they noted that they expect MetaMask to return to the App Store shortly and apologized for any inconvenience the situation might have caused. The MetaMask team also issued a plea to users, urging them to report any fake MetaMask apps that might surface during this downtime.
“If you come across any fake MetaMask apps on the App Store, please report them immediately. π Our top priority is to get this sorted out quickly and protect users from any fake apps,” they stated.
While Apple’s strict policies are a significant factor behind the temporary removal of the MetaMask app, they are not the only concern for cryptocurrency-related applications. Apple’s guidelines also mandate that app developers share 30% of transaction revenues with the tech giant. This hefty “Apple tax” has posed a substantial barrier for crypto firms looking to allow iOS users to purchase nonfungible tokens (NFTs) and engage in other blockchain-related activities.
Read more:
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