Decentralized social networking app Damus, which is supported by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, is set to be taken down from the App Store due to Apple's strict payment regulations. Apple had previously warned Damus about its tips feature, suggesting that it could enable content creators to sell digital content on the platform.
Apple has a history of prohibiting developers from selling additional in-app content unless the transactions are processed through Apple, which takes a 30% commission. To avoid being banned, the Damus team had to modify the tipping feature, which relies on Bitcoin's Lightning Network. They had to remove the tips button from posts and only allow tips on profiles.
Despite these adjustments, Damus recently announced that their app will be removed from the App Store. The company shared Apple's review notes, which stated that the tips feature still did not comply with their guidelines. Apple clarified that even if tips or donations are optional, if they are linked to receiving digital content, they must use in-app purchases as per their guidelines.
An Apple spokesperson stated in an email that the company rejected Damus' latest submission because the previously highlighted issues were not resolved.
Damus intends to appeal Apple's decision. They expressed their disappointment in a tweet, explaining that users are only tipped after making posts and that the idea of selling content is unfounded. Damus believes that Apple's guideline is being misused and misapplied.
Jack Dorsey, the co-founder of Twitter, who donated bitcoin to develop the decentralized social networking protocol Nostr, which Damus is based on, responded to Apple's decision on Twitter. He emphasized that tips do not unlock content.
Damus entered the App Store in February and was among the numerous Twitter alternatives that emerged after Elon Musk's involvement with the social network. Many Twitter users turned to decentralized social networking platforms like Mastodon. Damus has garnered approximately 255,000 downloads globally on iOS since its release.
The app's appeal lies in its open social network concept that operates without a central authority governing content decisions or participation, distinguishing it from platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Damus features end-to-end encrypted messaging and does not require users to provide phone numbers, emails, or names due to the Nostr's functioning.
It's worth noting that Damus has encountered issues with Apple before. During the app review process, Apple demanded that Damus adhere to the same regulations as other social networks, such as implementing content flagging mechanisms and explicit policies against abuse. Damus faced multiple rejections despite making changes to comply with Apple's guidelines. However, in February, the app was finally approved.
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