Had Disappeared On The App Store, Now The MetaMask App Is Coming Again

The MetaMask crypto wallet application is back on the App Store. (Photo; Doc. MetaMask)

JAKARTA - MetaMask, one of the popular wallets for the Ethereum network, ran into a bit of trouble with Apple's App Store on October 14. Over an hour, the MetaMask app was not available for download via the App Store.

Fortunately, the MetaMask team immediately gave an explanation via Twitter, saying the situation was not linked to dangerous things and they were trying hard to fix it as quickly as possible.

Moments later, MetaMask announced that their crypto wallet had returned to Apple's App Store according to its promises, and they also apologized for the inconvenience users may have experienced during this interim suspension.

However, MetaMask does not provide specific reasons for removing its app from Apple's App Store. Consensys, the owner of MetaMask, states that the removal is not related to issues of security, vulnerability, or app functionality issues. They also encourage users to report if they find fake MetaMask apps.

Keep in mind that Apple's App Store has strict rules related to crypto apps. One of the rules that may be the cause of the removal of MetaMask is the prohibition against the in-app crypto mining process. In addition, the store also prohibits apps that have crypto payments or offers for in-app crypto purchases.

Regarding the latest changes, MetaMask recently added a feature that allows users to deposit funds via on-ramp Stripe. However, there is no indication that the addition of this feature causes the removal of MetaMask. Previously, MetaMask had also offered many similar on-ramp fiats.

MetaMask Is Not The First

Not only MetaMask, other crypto apps have also experienced similar problems with Apple's App Store. Coinbase Wallet and Trust Wallet were also never available in 2022 before finally being restored. Uniswap also reported difficulties in reaching the list on Apple's App Store until April 2023.

A temporary deletion of MetaMask from Apple's App Store raises debate over app store strict rules against crypto apps. While deletion is temporary, these events reflect the challenges crypto apps face in keeping them in large app stores.