APE acts as an open-source protocol layer for the APE ecosystem and allows third-party developers to integrate APE into new and existing projects (services, blockchain-based games, etc.). APE was launched with the intent of handing control of the APE ecosystem to existing BAYC and MAYC NFT holders, expanding the APE ecosystem to include a broader user base, supporting the creation and development of new products and services to enhance the ecosystem, and promoting decentralized community governance in the form of the DAO.