Google is making waves. The tech giant has announced a game-changing policy for its Google Play Store. Now, developers can add Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) to their Android games and apps. This move aims to offer a “safe, trusted, and transparent experience” for users. They will interact with blockchain games and NFTs in a new way.
Quick Take:
- Google’s new policy allows developers to integrate Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) into their Android games and apps.
- Developers must adhere to Google’s guidelines, ensuring transparency and not promoting gambling or trading activities.
- This policy change marks a significant shift in the mobile app landscape, contrasting with Apple’s more restrictive approach to NFTs.
Is Google’s NFT Policy a Revolution?
Earlier this year, Google hinted at this change. They planned to give developers clear guidelines. These would help them add NFTs to their Android games. Now, Google has unveiled these new rules. As a result, the tech giant will regulate blockchain games and apps. Additionally, full implementation is expected by the end of the year.
Under the new policy, transparency is key. Given that, developers must disclose if a game is a blockchain game on the Google Play Store. If in-game products have corresponding NFTs, developers must make this clear. Now, Google will allow NFTs to unlock in-app content. This is true no matter where the user bought the NFT. Apple, Google’s main competitor, does not allow this.
Essentially, Google’s approach to blockchain gaming is balanced and open-minded. Not to mention, developers can add NFTs and other crypto integrations. Moreover, they must not violate Google’s Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests policy. Developers cannot “promote or glamorize” any crypto or NFT trading activities.
Moving forward, Google will allow game developers to offer in-game NFTs. But, these NFTs cannot be wagered, and sweepstakes are not allowed. Particularly, any betting mechanics must meet Google’s gambling eligibility requirements.
“NFTs should enhance a user’s experience or help users advance in the game,” said Google’s rules. “NFTs must not be used to wager or stake for the chance to win real-world prizes.”
Google vs. Apple: Divergent Paths on NFTs
Slowly, Google’s new rules will roll out and changes are expected “later this summer.” Furthermore, the company will work with select game developers. They will “test and iterate the new user experience” for blockchain games. NFL Rivals developer Mythical Games and Reddit are working with Google. They will help refine its policies on NFTs.
On the contrary, Apple’s App Store has been more restrictive with NFTs and crypto. Currently, developers can use NFTs within iOS games and apps, but Apple takes a 30% cut.
Undoubtedly, Google’s move is significant. It changes the mobile app landscape. Finally, it will be interesting to see the impact of the development of blockchain games and the use of NFTs.
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