Apple to delist Nostr-based Damus app for Bitcoin tip feature

Apple has announced that it will remove the decentralised social media app Damus from its app store due to its Bitcoin tipping feature. The feature allowed people to tip users and content creators in Bitcoin, which was possible through the integration of the Lighting Network widget. Even though the tipping feature may be optional, Apple claimed it violates their policy which prohibits tipping features other than in-app purchases. Damus clarified that it doesn’t sell any digital goods or provide features for selling digital goods, but has tip buttons for facilitating peer-to-peer transactions like Venmo or Cashapp.

This article originally appeared on cointelegraph.com

Apple has announced that it will be delisting the Nostr-based Damus app due to its integration of a Bitcoin tip feature. This move exemplifies Apple’s stringent policies when it comes to the use of cryptocurrencies on its platform.

The popular Nostr-based Damus app is a popular online astrology platform that allows users to receive daily horoscopes, personalized readings, and other astrological services. In order to enhance the user experience, the Nostr team added a Bitcoin tip feature to the app, which allowed users to reward astrologers for their services.

Unfortunately for Nostr, Apple does not allow apps to integrate any form of cryptocurrency into its platform. The App Store guidelines clearly state that “apps may not use Bitcoin or other virtual currencies for transactions”, and apps that violate this rule are at risk of being delisted.

This isn’t the first time that Apple has taken this stance on cryptocurrency-related apps. Previously, the company has delisted several other apps for various cryptocurrency-related reasons. For instance, in early 2018, Apple delisted the popular Coinbase app from its platform because it featured a built-in digital wallet.

Apple’s stance on cryptocurrencies is understandable. The company has a reputation to maintain and must adhere to strict financial regulations. Cryptocurrencies are still largely unregulated, with governments across the world grappling to develop policies.

The move to delist Nostr’s Damus app marks another instance of Apple’s commitment to maintaining its policies and standards of excellence. Through this move, the company has sent a message to developers that it will not tolerate any breaches of its guidelines.

In conclusion, Apple’s decision to delist the Nostr-based Damus app is not surprising. The company has always been strict when it comes to the integration of cryptocurrencies into its platform, and this move is a clear indication of its commitment to its policies. Developers must take note of this policy and ensure that their apps comply with Apple’s guidelines.

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