Opinion PWAs could potentially overthrow the App Store with web3 games
**Disclosure:** The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of crypto.news’ editorial team.
Apple’s App Store, once hailed for its convenience and accessibility, now faces criticism for stifling innovation with high commission fees and constantly shifting rules and restrictions. These monopolistic practices have also drawn the attention of the US Department of Justice, which filed a lawsuit against Apple in March, leading to an additional hearing.
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Apple isn’t the only one under scrutiny—Google’s app store is also embroiled in a similar legal battle with Epic Games over allegations of monopolistic practices. Crypto-related apps, in particular, have been adversely affected by these platforms’ high fees and restrictions, as various app distributors’ payment systems remain incompatible with digital currencies. Consequently, developers have been forced to disable features or limit functionality.
**A New Solution for Crypto’s App-Store Woes: Progressive Web Apps**
Rather than trying to appease the owners of these marketplaces, the solution for crypto’s app-store challenges may lie in bypassing them altogether through progressive web apps (PWAs). PWAs are developed using web platform technologies and provide a user experience similar to platform-specific apps, but without the need for traditional app distribution channels.
Developers can publish a PWA online, and users can add the application to their device’s home screen directly from a browser. Once installed, a PWA can be launched directly from the operating system, just like any app downloaded from an app store. This approach allows developers to bypass app stores entirely, reclaiming autonomy and extending their reach.
**App Distributors Tighten Their Grip**
Apple and Google are wary of crypto elements within their app stores, especially features that allow users to bypass traditional payment systems, thereby reducing the distributors’ control. Consequently, app stores typically do not permit peer-to-peer trading, dynamic pricing, and wallet connections. Apple’s App Store charges a 27% commission on every transaction, and any NFT utility is forbidden unless purchased in-app.
To link to alternative purchase methods, developers must follow a cumbersome process involving the submission of a request for the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement. Apple then reviews the app to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the entitlement. Each time the app directs traffic to an external link, the App Store displays an in-app system disclosure page for the user.
**A Path Forward for Web3 Gaming**
PWAs can bridge the gap between web3 gaming and web2 mobile platforms by combining the advantages of traditional websites with those of platform-specific apps. PWAs offer easy access, a consistent experience across operating systems, and a decentralized alternative to conventional app marketplaces.
For play-to-earn gaming, in particular, PWAs provide a means for users to engage beyond the desktop without facing arbitrary restrictions that hinder the successful release of mobile games. Furthermore, the ability to deliver comprehensive mobile web3 gaming experiences can enhance player connectivity, boost user engagement, and allow developers to maintain control over their gaming ecosystems.
**Dispelling Myths and Overcoming Marketplace Restrictions**
Despite some developers’ skepticism regarding the viability of PWAs for web3 gaming, concerns about performance, user acquisition, and market acceptance are largely unfounded. PWAs support features such as Apple Pay and push notifications, facilitating seamless payments and user interaction. Moreover, user acquisition for PWAs relies on practical, direct channels like Facebook, circumventing the restrictions and substantial investments typically required for visibility in app stores.
Although few developers have extensive experience building PWAs, pioneers in the web3 gaming space, including Kuroro Beasts, Sui Games, and Pixelverse, are committed to exploring this new territory and showcasing the potential of PWAs to the community. Adopting PWA technology will undoubtedly present challenges, but dedicated developers are prepared to overcome these hurdles through optimization and effective marketing strategies.
**The Future of Web3 Gaming Lies in PWAs**
Now is the time to rethink mobile gaming app development and explore the untapped potential of PWAs in creating immersive and accessible digital experiences. Developers and players alike can stand against unfair app marketplace restrictions, paving the way for a future where decentralized innovation can thrive without constraints.
It’s not just the games themselves that should embody the core values of web3 users but also the very means by which we access them. Let’s move beyond the Apple/Google duopoly into a world that allows app developers and users to truly thrive.
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**Tomer Pascal**
Tomer Pascal is the CEO of OwnPlay, the creator of the progressive web app (PWA) game CityVerse Tycoon.
