Apple Suddenly Pulls MetaMask Wallet From App Store – What’s Going On?

Popular Ethereum wallet MetaMask was briefly removed from the Apple App Store on Saturday before being updated.

“FYI: We are aware that MetaMask is not currently available for download on the App Store,” the team said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “This is not related to anything malicious and our team is working hard to resolve it quickly.”

The MetaMask wallet is an essential tool for accessing various decentralized applications (DApps) on the Web3 ecosystem, with a user base of over 30 million worldwide.

The wallet provider has confirmed that there is no security risk for users and that no “action on the part of users is required”, and that it is not related to the functionality of the app.

“We expect MetaMask to return to the App Store soon,” he said.

This isn't the first time MetaMask has faced challenges in app marketplaces dominated by tech giants.

In the year In December 2019, Google banned MetaMask from the Play Store, citing violations of financial services guidelines against cryptocurrency mining on mobile devices.

MetaMask appealed, but Google upheld the ban.

Apple's 30% revenue decline poses a challenge for Crypto Apps

Apple's guidelines require app developers to share 30% of marketing revenues.

This has become a hurdle for crypto companies, including those that facilitate the purchase of non-perishable tokens (NFTs), as they try to offer services to iOS users.

Apple has reportedly removed Damus, a bitcoin-friendly social media app, from the App Store for violating its terms of service.

The app has a tipping feature that allows content creators to receive tips in the form of Bitcoin through the Lightning Network.

Apple deems this feature to be a violation of its guidelines, as it prevents developers from selling additional in-app content unless the transactions go through Apple.