Decentralized social media platform Damus is being removed from Apple’s App Store over its failure to comply with its app guidelines.
The Nostr-built app contains a feature called “zaps” that lets users tip on posts using the cryptocurrency Bitcoin. This raised problems during the review process, as Apple views the feature as allowing in-app purchases, which should only be covered by Apple’s own in-app purchasing system.
Looks like we are getting removed from the appstore even after updating our app to make it clear that no digital content is getting unlocked when users are tipped. Users are only ever tipped after posts are made, the idea that content is being sold is nonsense. We will be filing… pic.twitter.com/Su945kE37v
— Damus⚡️ (@damusapp) June 26, 2023
Following this, the tech giant urged Damus to remove the feature within 14 days for violating guidelines on business payments.
The Jack Dorsey-backed app announced via Twitter that it will be filing an appeal, as its tipping system is “clearly being abused and misapplied.” Dorsey also responded to the removal by clarifying the rules of its feature, saying tipping with zaps is not the same as unlocking content.
Tips aren’t unlocking content, @Applehttps://t.co/4OFHMmI7tm
— jack (@jack) June 26, 2023
The company also made a follow-up tweet calling out Apple for “hating” free money.
Damus was first listed in the Apple App Store last February with the goal of creating a censorship-free global social network, as well as offering a solid alternative to Elon Musk’s Twitter.
The app requires no personal information from its user, and anyone can join without needing a name, phone number, or email to sign up.