According to a recent report by VentureBeat, Google Play has updated its policies to allow blockchain-based digital content, including non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and other tokenized digital assets, in its app store.
The move is in response to the growing interest in NFTs and their unique user experiences. Google has been working with Web3 game makers such as Mythical Games to bring blockchain gaming recognition to the masses.
Google Play’s Blockchain And NFT Policy Update
Previously, blockchain game companies had difficulty distributing their games, as they often relied on the open web for distribution. As part of the new policy, developers must be transparent with users about tokenized digital assets.
According to the report, if an app or game sells or enables users to earn tokenized digital assets, developers must declare this. Additionally, developers may not promote or glamorize any potential earnings from playing or trading activities.
The new policy is expected to create a level playing field for developers and promote user trust and responsible usage of blockchain technology. Google Play will roll out the policy to all developers on its platform later this year, with a select group of developers testing and iterating the new user experience.
Furthermore, Google emphasizes the importance of maintaining user trust and has clarified that apps that have not met gambling eligibility requirements cannot accept money for a chance to win assets of unknown real-world monetary value, including NFTs.
Developers Can Now Bring Blockchain-Based Apps To Google
Google Play’s recent policy update to allow blockchain-based digital content has opened up new opportunities for developers to create engaging and immersive user experiences. As part of this update, Google Play is now in talks with industry partners to further improve its support for secondary markets.
Mythical Games, a Web3 game maker, recently released Nitro Nation World Tour, a racing game that features NFTs. The game hit nearly a million downloads in June, proving a growing interest in blockchain gaming. With Google Play’s policy update, more developers can now bring their blockchain-based apps to the platform.
However, there are still some rules that developers must follow. For example, cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets must be conducted through certified services in regulated jurisdictions.
Furthermore, apps integrating tokenized digital assets, such as NFTs, must comply with Google Play’s Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests policy. NFTs cannot be used to wager or stake in exchange for the opportunity to win prizes of real-world monetary value.
Google Play’s policy update is a positive development for developers looking to create engaging and immersive experiences through blockchain technology.
As blockchain technology evolves, platforms like Google Play must continue to support innovation while maintaining user trust and safety. With further improvements to support blockchain-based app experiences, the possibilities are endless.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView.com