Ethereum wallet Metamask went offline on Apple’s App Store for several hours on October 14, raising concerns that it might be removed from the market. The wallet is connected to various Web3 decentralized applications (DApps). MetaMask claims to have over 30 million users worldwide.
On October 14th, reports surfaced that the MetaMask app was no longer visible in the App Store. Apple users were also unable to download applications from the MetaMask website.
According to a MetaMask spokesperson, this issue is not related to any security incident or malicious activity.
“We are aware that MetaMask is currently not available for download on the App Store. This issue is not related to any malicious activity. Our dedicated team is working diligently to resolve it as soon as possible. Importantly, This is not a security issue, and requires no compromise or action on your part. Also, it has nothing to do with the functionality of the app. ”
Apple’s service policies are likely behind the app’s disappearance. According to the marketplace guidelines, apps are not allowed to run “unrelated background processes” such as cryptocurrency mining.
According to MetaMask, the removal of the app was only temporary. “We expect MetaMask to return to the App Store soon,” a spokesperson said minutes before the app was relaunched, adding that fake MetaMask apps on the App Store should be reported immediately.
MetaMask is facing a second challenge from the Big Tech market. The company was suspended from the Google Play app store in December 2019 for allegedly violating financial services guidelines. Google quickly rejected MetaMask’s appeal to overturn the ban, citing its own policy prohibiting cryptocurrency mining on mobile devices.
Apple’s guidelines also require app developers to share 30% of transaction revenue. His 30% Apple tax is also a barrier for cryptocurrency companies, including those that want to allow iOS users to purchase non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
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