Google Play Store’s policy on gambling and contests updated
Google has recently made updates to its Play Store policies in order to provide more clarity to video game publishers who incorporate the use of digital assets like NFTs. NFTs are unique digital collectibles stored on blockchains, representing various forms of media such as cartoons, artworks, songs, images, and more. Due to the potential price fluctuations associated with NFTs, companies like Apple and Google take precautions to protect their users from financial risks.
As part of these policy updates, Google now permits video game publishers to enable the sale of NFTs on the Play Store. The ‘Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests’ policy has been revised to include a requirement for developers to complete a declaration for apps that involve users engaging with digital assets.
According to a statement published by Google on the Android Developers Blog, they are introducing policy updates to enable the inclusion of blockchain-based digital content transactions in apps and games on Google Play. As part of these updates, Google is emphasizing the importance of transparency between apps and users regarding tokenized digital assets. While the intention behind tokenized assets is to enhance immersive experiences, Google is taking measures to protect users by prohibiting developers from promoting or glorifying potential earnings from playing or trading activities.
Google’s recent update to the Play Store policy leaves no room for ambiguity, as it explicitly states that deceptive behavior from app developers will not be tolerated.
Google, the prominent search engine giant, holds the expectation of absolute transparency from video game publishers who distribute their products on the Play Store platform. It is imperative for developers to provide clear explanations to users regarding the functionalities of their games.
Furthermore, Google has implemented a mandatory declaration form that needs to be completed by all apps on the Play Store offering financial services. This measure ensures compliance with Google’s policies and guidelines.
Existing video game publishers are given a deadline of August 31 to submit the required declaration and supporting documents that validate their claims regarding their business practices.
According to Google’s blog, developers are advised against offering purchases where the value of the NFT received by users is unclear at the time of purchase. This specifically includes mechanisms such as “loot boxes,” where users receive randomized blockchain-based items.
The Play Store policy updates have been made by Google in consultation with industry experts and stakeholders, aiming to enhance user trust. Matt Williamson, the senior engineering manager at Reddit, expressed his support for Google’s policy upgrade, highlighting its potential to foster increased user trust.
Matt Williamson expressed his support for Google’s policy update, stating that their partnership aims to establish a fair environment that fosters user trust and responsible utilization of blockchain technology. Through the implementation of clear guidelines, informed decisions can be made by users while they enjoy immersive experiences.
In contrast to Google’s proactive approach in accommodating the blockchain industry, Apple has taken measures to distance itself from Web3-related apps. As recently as June, Apple imposed restrictions on the presence of two Bitcoin wallet providers, Zeus and Damus, on the App Store. Both of these wallets are non-custodial, while Apple requires apps related to crypto transactions to be registered on centralized exchanges, which often offer custodial wallet services where private keys are stored on the exchange’s servers.
Last year, Brian Armstrong, the CEO of Coinbase, expressed his disappointment with the existing rules of the App Store. He highlighted that these rules hindered the seamless integration of new payment options, other than Apple Pay, for developers interested in the pro-Web3 space.
