google play has announced that it has updated its policies to create new behaviors Blockchain-based digital content in apps and games, effective December 7th. Shared on the blog by Joseph MillsGoogle Play’s Group Product Manager, shared his thoughts on how he plans to help developers bring innovative ideas to life with the July 2023 policy updates.
The new policy aims to stay in line with real money gambling policies
As Google Play hosts a variety of apps related to blockchain technology, they are looking to expand these offerings to build digital experiences through the use of tokenized digital assets such as NFTs. The fact that their partners are enthusiastic about this is acknowledged in the blog with supporting statements from well-known names Mythical Games And Reddit.
The motivation behind this announced change is Google Play’s desire to encourage the growth of creative in-app experiences and help developers grow their business. Additionally, this change is in line with Google Play’s strict policy on real money gambling, games and contests as it discourages developers from offering prizes of unknown real money value.
In cases where an app or game facilitates tokenized sales or revenue from digital assets, developers must explicitly state this upon registration. As mentioned earlier, developers are not allowed to promote or glorify potential earnings from gaming or trading activities, which serves as an additional measure to protect users from falling for false advertisements.
Guidelines for blockchain-based experiences on Google Play
For purposes of this policy, blockchain-based content is defined as tokenized digital assets securely stored on a blockchain. App developers whose apps contain blockchain-based content are obliged to comply with the specified requirements mentioned. There are four discussion points in the announced policy below.
- Cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets: The new policy stipulates that cryptocurrency transactions, including buying, holding or exchanging them, are only conducted through certified services operating in regulated jurisdictions.
- crypto mining: No scope for apps that mine cryptocurrencies on devices.
- Transparency requirements for the distribution of tokenized digital assets: App developers must declare sales or allow users to purchase tokenized digital assets by completing the Financial Functions Declaration form available on the App Content page in the Play Console.
- Additional requirements for NFT gamificationNote: In order to stay away from real money gambling, an application process for using NFTs in games must be completed.
The announced policy change will go into effect on December 7, 2023. Until then, there is a period during which the developers can preview and follow the changes. The PolicyBytes video also includes an explanation of the policy.
What are your thoughts on Google Play’s announcement of updating its policies to enable a blockchain-based digital experience? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
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