MetaMask Faces Temporary Removal from Apple's Digital Marketplace

On October 14th, a brief removal of the MetaMask from the Apple App Store caused a stir among cryptocurrency enthusiasts, prompting concerns about the future accessibility of the app on the iOS platform.

The MetaMask app, boasting a user base exceeding 30 million globally, was conspicuously absent from the Apple App Store for several hours. Additionally, Apple users found that they could not download the application directly from MetaMask's website during this period.

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe - We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

What is a Crypto Mining Pool? Is it Worth it? (Beginner-Friendly)

SUBSCRIBE

ON YOUTUBE

While the exact reason behind the app's removal remains unclear, it appears that Apple's service guidelines might have played a role. Apple's rules explicitly disallow apps from running "unrelated background processes," like crypto mining.

This has been a significant consideration for developers in the cryptocurrency space, considering that Apple also takes a 30% cut of transaction revenues. The "Apple tax" poses an additional hurdle for crypto firms looking to facilitate purchases of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on iOS devices.

A MetaMask spokesperson addressed the situation, indicating that no security risk or malicious activity was involved.

We’re aware that MetaMask isn’t currently available for download on the App Store. This issue is unrelated to any malicious activity. Our dedicated team is working diligently to resolve it as quickly as possible. Importantly, this is not a security concern, and there is no compromise or action required on users’ part. Additionally, it’s not related to the app’s functionality.

The MetaMask app was readded to the Apple App Store within a few hours. A MetaMask spokesperson added, shortly before the app's reappearance, "We anticipate that MetaMask will be back on the App Store shortly," urging users to report any imitation apps.

The temporary removal was not an isolated issue for MetaMask, as it has previously encountered friction with major tech platforms. In December 2019, MetaMask was suspended from Google Play's app store for allegedly breaching financial services guidelines.

While the episode ended without a major crisis, it did underscore the vulnerability of cryptocurrency applications to the policies of major tech marketplaces.

Aaron S., Editor-In-Chief

Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.

Full Bio

All Expert Contributors & Analysts