14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has updated the App Store guidelines to regular cryptocurrency apps in an attempt to align with the evolving trends in the technology world.
First and foremost, the Cupertino-based tech giant has modified article 2.4.2 of the Hardware Compatibility section to explain that apps built with the purpose of mining for cryptocurrency using iPhone resources are not allowed.
In other words, if mining is conducted, apps that are published in the App Store can only use cloud power and not impact iPhone performance in any way.
"2.4.2 Design your app to use power efficiently. Apps should not rapidly drain battery, generate excessive heat, or put unnecessary strain on device resources. Apps, including any third party advertisements displayed within them, may not run unrelated background processes, such as cryptocurrency mining,” the updated policy reads.
The Cryptocurrency section has also been updated, with the new guidelines now stating that “apps may not mine for cryptocurrencies unless the processing is performed off device (e.g. cloud-based mining).”
ICO apps
Apple has also added guidelines for Initial Coin Offerings to state that only renown organizations are allowed to publish apps offering such services in the App Store.
“Apps facilitating Initial Coin Offerings ("ICOs"), cryptocurrency futures trading, and other crypto-securities or quasi-securities trading must come from established banks, securities firms, futures commission merchants ("FCM"), or other approved financial institutions and must comply with all applicable law,” the company now states.
And last but not least, according to the update policy, cryptocurrency apps that are published in the App Store must not encourage users to perform various tasks in exchange for crypto coins. Most often, these apps require users to download apps, complete surveys, or even post messages on their social accounts and get paid in return. Starting with these updates, such apps are no longer allowed and those in the store violating the guidelines will be removed.