MetaMask app: Your secure gateway to Web3, DeFi, and NFTs

The MetaMask app puts the power of Web3 in your pocket. It’s a secure, non-custodial Ethereum and EVM-compatible wallet that lets you buy, store, swap, and send crypto, explore dApps, and manage NFTs with confidence. Whether you’re minting your first collectible or optimizing your DeFi strategy, the MetaMask app gives you direct control over your assets—anytime, anywhere.

Own your keys. Own your future. With the MetaMask app, you’re always in control of your crypto and your identity.

What is the MetaMask app?

The MetaMask app is a mobile wallet and dApp browser for iOS and Android that connects you to the decentralized web. It supports Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks (like Polygon, BNB Smart Chain, Arbitrum, and Optimism) and syncs with the MetaMask browser extension for a seamless cross-device experience. It’s designed for simplicity, security, and speed—ideal for both beginners and power users.

As a non-custodial wallet, the MetaMask app never holds your funds or private keys. You control your Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP), and your wallet lives on your device. This design empowers true ownership, stronger privacy, and flexible access across Web3.

Why the MetaMask app stands out

• ✅ Non-custodial security: You hold your keys and SRP—no centralized account required.
• ✅ Web3 dApp browser: Discover and use DeFi, games, and NFT marketplaces right inside the app.
• ✅ Native swaps: Get competitive rates via an aggregator that sources liquidity from multiple DEXs.
• ✅ NFT management: View, organize, and send NFTs across supported EVM networks.
• ✅ Multi-network: Add custom RPCs and switch networks in seconds.
• ✅ Privacy and control: Adjust permissions, clear connections, and manage approvals easily.
• ✅ Biometric protection: Secure app access with Face ID, Touch ID, or device biometrics.

How the MetaMask app works

When you set up the MetaMask app, it generates a wallet secured by a Secret Recovery Phrase. This SRP can restore your account on any supported device, so it’s essential to store it offline and never share it. The app creates Ethereum addresses derived from your SRP, enabling you to receive tokens, mint NFTs, sign messages, and interact with smart contracts.

The MetaMask app supports EVM chains by letting you switch networks or add custom ones. Transactions use gas fees, which depend on network activity. For swaps, the app aggregates liquidity from top DEXs to help you find competitive pricing with transparent fees you can review before confirming.

Getting started with the MetaMask app (step-by-step)

1. Download securely: Get the MetaMask app from the official iOS App Store or Google Play.
2. Create or import: Choose “Create a new wallet” or “Import using Secret Recovery Phrase.”
3. Back up your SRP: Write the 12-word phrase on paper and store it in a secure, offline place.
4. Enable biometrics: Add Face ID/Touch ID or a strong passcode for quick, safe access.
5. Fund your wallet: Transfer crypto from an exchange or another wallet to your address.
6. Connect to dApps: Use the in-app browser to open DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, and more.
7. Review permissions: Manage token approvals and connected sites under Settings regularly.

Key features of the MetaMask app

1) Built-in Web3 browser

Search, discover, and connect to decentralized applications using the in-app browser. The MetaMask app asks you to approve each connection and displays which permissions are requested, helping you browse with clarity and confidence.

2) MetaMask Swaps

Swap tokens directly within the MetaMask app. The aggregator compares multiple liquidity sources and quotes a total price, including fees, before you confirm. You can customize slippage and gas to fit your strategy.

3) NFT wallet and gallery

Track, display, and send your NFTs across compatible networks. Add custom tokens or collections if they don’t appear automatically, and keep your most valued assets organized with an elegant gallery view.

4) Multi-network flexibility

Switch between Ethereum Mainnet, testnets, and popular EVM networks in a tap. Add new networks with verified RPC details to expand your Web3 horizons while keeping your familiar MetaMask app interface.

5) Privacy and safety controls

From granular permissions to connection management and token approvals, the MetaMask app gives you visibility and control. Turn on phishing detection, review site connections, and sign only what you understand.

Security best practices for the MetaMask app

• 🔒 Protect your SRP: Never share your Secret Recovery Phrase. Store it offline in multiple secure locations.
• 🔒 Verify sources: Download the MetaMask app only from official app stores and verify dApp URLs.
• 🔒 Use biometrics + passcode: Enable device security and auto-lock settings.
• 🔒 Review approvals: Regularly revoke unused token approvals on DeFi protocols.
• 🔒 Beware of support scams: MetaMask will never ask for your SRP—anywhere, ever.
• 🔒 Keep software updated: Update the MetaMask app and your device OS for the latest protections.

MetaMask app vs. extension vs. other wallets

Feature	MetaMask App (Mobile)	MetaMask Extension (Desktop)	Typical Multi-chain Wallet
Custody model	Non-custodial; you hold SRP	Non-custodial; you hold SRP	Usually non-custodial
Platforms	iOS, Android	Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge	Mobile and/or desktop
Web3 access	In-app dApp browser	Connect via site wallet buttons	Varies by app
Network support	Ethereum + EVM chains	Ethereum + EVM chains	Varies (some multi-chain)
Swaps	Built-in aggregator	Built-in aggregator	Varies (DEX or aggregator)
NFT management	Gallery view and transfers	View and manage NFTs	Varies widely
Hardware wallet	Compatible via WalletConnect-style flows	Supports Ledger/Trezor	Varies
Security	Biometric + passcode, local keys	Password + local encryption	Varies

Top ways to use the MetaMask app

• ★ DeFi: Lend, borrow, provide liquidity, and stake across EVM protocols.
• ★ NFTs: Mint, trade, and curate collections on leading marketplaces.
• ★ Gaming: Log in to play-to-earn and on-chain games with one tap.
• ★ DAOs: Vote and sign proposals from your phone.
• ★ Payments: Send tokens globally in seconds with clear fee controls.

Pro tips for a smoother MetaMask app experience

• ⚙️ Add custom tokens by contract address if they don’t appear automatically.
• ⚙️ Use network-specific RPCs for faster performance during high traffic.
• ⚙️ Double-check contract permissions after interacting with new DeFi protocols.
• ⚙️ Sync with the MetaMask extension to manage assets across devices.
• ⚙️ Keep some native token for gas on each network you plan to use.

Frequently Asked Questions about MetaMask app

Is the MetaMask app safe?

The MetaMask app is non-custodial and encrypts your keys locally on your device. Safety ultimately depends on your practices: protect your Secret Recovery Phrase, enable biometrics, verify URLs, and only sign transactions you understand.

What fees does the MetaMask app charge?

You pay network gas fees for transactions on the blockchain. For Swaps, MetaMask includes a transparent service fee that’s shown before confirmation. You can adjust gas settings to prioritize speed or savings.

Which networks does the MetaMask app support?

MetaMask supports Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks like Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, and BNB Smart Chain. You can add custom networks by entering verified RPC details in Settings.

How do I back up or restore my wallet?

Write down your 12-word Secret Recovery Phrase and store it offline. To restore, choose “Import using Secret Recovery Phrase” on the MetaMask app and enter the words in the correct order on a trusted device.

Can I use the MetaMask app and the browser extension together?

Yes. You can import the same wallet to both by using your Secret Recovery Phrase. This lets you manage assets and connect to dApps from mobile and desktop seamlessly.

Why can’t I see a token or NFT in the MetaMask app?

Some tokens and NFTs don’t populate automatically. Add tokens via their contract address, and ensure you’re on the correct network. For NFTs, confirm the collection is on an EVM chain and supported by the app.

What happens if I share my Secret Recovery Phrase?

Anyone with your SRP can access your wallet and assets. If compromised, immediately move funds to a new wallet with a fresh SRP. Never share your SRP with anyone, including “support” agents.