Apple Threatens to Remove Social Media App Damus from App Store

New feature not in Apple guidelines

The team behind the decentralized social media app, Damus, recently revealed Apple’s threat to remove the application from the App Store if certain changes are not made. This disclosure was made through a tweet, stating that Damus must provide an update within 14 days or risk being taken down from the digital marketplace.

The specific concern raised by Apple revolves around Damus’ ‘zaps function’, which allows users to earn Bitcoin (BTC) through posts. According to Apple, digital transactions should only be conducted through in-app purchases.

Removing the ‘zaps function’

The lead developer, William Casarin, expressed disappointment at Apple’s demand. He highlighted similar tipping functionalities in popular apps like Venmo and CashApp, questioning Apple’s inconsistency. He also noted that the timing of the warning seemed suspicious, as the Damus team had plans to present at the Oslo Freedom Forum on financial freedom.

What is Damus?

Damus is a decentralized social media application that was launched in February. It is built on the Nostr protocol, a decentralized social networking protocol created by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. By leveraging blockchain technology to distribute data, Damus enables direct sharing of content between users without it being hosted on a central server.

The primary goal of Damus’ decentralized social network is to bypass central authorities that control users’ data and dictate platform rules. This approach aims to provide users with increased privacy and freedom of expression.

Empowering users through decentralization

Damus’s use of the Nostr protocol ensures that users have greater control over their own data and information. Unlike traditional social media platforms, Damus eliminates the need for intermediaries to manage and regulate user content. This decentralized network empowers users by giving them sovereignty over their data and facilitating direct connections with other users within the network.

Privacy and freedom of expression

With the centralized approach of many social media platforms, concerns surrounding data privacy and freedom of expression have become increasingly prevalent. Damus aims to address these concerns by providing a platform that operates without a central authority controlling user information. By embracing decentralization, Damus aims to foster an environment where individuals feel more secure in expressing their opinions and sharing content.

In conclusion, Damus, a decentralized social media app, faces the threat of removal from Apple’s App Store due to a specific feature not in compliance with Apple’s guidelines. The Damus team must decide whether to remove the functionality, which allows users to earn Bitcoin through posts, or risk losing access to the App Store. Damus’ commitment to decentralization and empowering users offers an alternative approach to social media, prioritizing privacy and freedom of expression.