Introduction
Damus, a bitcoin-friendly social media app, has avoided being deplatformed from the Apple App Store after a two-week battle with Apple over the app’s “zaps” tipping feature. Zaps allow users to send bitcoin tips to each other within the app.
Apple had initially threatened to remove Damus from the App Store on June 27, 2023, unless the app removed the zaps feature. Apple argued that the zaps feature violated its in-app purchase guidelines, which require that all digital content sold through the App Store be purchased using Apple Pay.
Damus developers argued that the zaps feature did not violate Apple’s guidelines, as it did not involve the sale of digital content. They also argued that the zaps feature was an important part of the Damus experience, as it allowed users to support each other and reward creators for their content.
The Battle
The battle between Damus and Apple played out in the public eye, with both sides issuing statements and taking to social media to rally support. The bitcoin community also weighed in, with many people expressing their support for Damus and criticizing Apple for its handling of the situation.
In the end, Apple relented and allowed Damus to remain in the App Store. However, the app was forced to make some changes to the zaps feature. For example, zaps can no longer be used to tip users for content posts. Instead, zaps can only be used to tip users at the profile level.
The Implications
The Damus saga has implications for the future of bitcoin and cryptocurrency adoption. Apple’s initial decision to threaten Damus with deplatforming was seen by many as a sign that the company was not supportive of bitcoin. However, Apple’s decision to allow Damus to remain in the App Store is a positive sign. It suggests that Apple is at least open to the idea of bitcoin and cryptocurrency, and that it is willing to work with developers to find ways to integrate these technologies into its products.
The Damus saga has also raised questions about Apple’s in-app purchase guidelines. Some people have argued that the guidelines are too restrictive, and that they make it difficult for developers to create innovative new apps. Apple has defended its guidelines, arguing that they are necessary to protect users and prevent fraud.
The Future of Damus
Damus is still a relatively new app, but it has already attracted a significant following. The app has over 100,000 active users, and it has been used to tip over $100,000 in bitcoin.
Damus developers are optimistic about the future of the app. They believe that the app has the potential to become a major platform for bitcoin tipping and social media. They are also planning to add new features to the app, such as the ability to send zaps to groups of users.
Conclusion
The Damus saga is a reminder that the future of bitcoin and cryptocurrency is still uncertain. However, the app’s success is a sign that there is growing interest in these technologies. As more and more people become interested in bitcoin, it is likely that we will see more and more apps like Damus that make it easy to use bitcoin in everyday life.
Additional Information
What is Bitcoin? Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that was created in 2009. It is based on blockchain technology, which is a distributed ledger that records all transactions made in the network.
What is a Bitcoin Tipping App? A Bitcoin tipping app is a mobile app that allows users to send and receive bitcoin tips. These apps can be used to reward creators for their content, or to simply send money to friends and family.
What are Apple’s In-App Purchase Guidelines? Apple’s in-app purchase guidelines are a set of rules that developers must follow when they create apps for the App Store. These guidelines cover a variety of topics, including pricing, refunds, and content restrictions.
