The company took this step after hidden cryptocurrency mining has become the most popular cybercrime trend among malware developers this past year.
Aside from banning crypto mining on its devices, Apple also outlined the general use of cryptocurrencies.
Perhaps, the iPhone maker's new policy is partly, if not entirely, motivated by concerns that mining could drain the batteries of devices. In digital currency mining, each of these things is likely to take place.
Revised wording in the App Store review guidelines notes that Apple is banning apps which "run unrelated background processes, such as cryptocurrency mining".
Apple's new guidelines may not have serious implications for miners at the moment since it is nearly impossible to mine cryptocurrencies on the iPhone and the iPad.
Does it Make a Difference?
Ad networks can be compromised to serve coin-mining code, which isn't anything app developers can control.
However, cryptocurrency mining apps that don't use device processing power but instead run in the cloud are allowed in the App Store.
In the Library tab, you can peruse your full collection of books with large, easy-to-see cover art, including the books downloaded to your device and a Finished section showcasing the books you have read in the past and the date you finished them, displayed in a timeline. Cryptocurrency mining is a processor intensive activity that puts great demand on the hardware and the power supply and could affect the life of both.
"Apps should not rapidly drain battery, generate excessive heat, or put unnecessary strain on device resources".
In addition, Apple is giving its full support to cryptocurrency wallet apps, as long as they are "offered by developers enrolled as an organization". This is not a move against cryptocurrency apps in general. Next, Apple plan on allowing cryptocurrency exchange applications and they even want to allow apps that facilitate initial coin offerings (ICO's), providing they comply with local laws.
Featured image from Shutterstock.
