Google has announced an update to its Play Store policy that now allows apps and games containing NFTs on its platform. This move marks an ongoing shift in the company’s attitude towards blockchain-based technology.
Under the new rules, games using tokenized assets must clearly state that they use blockchain elements. In an effort to promote responsible use, Google will prevent developers from glorifying potential revenue from NFTs. The policy also extends to banning “loot box” mechanisms in line with their anti-gambling stance.
Reddit, which recently enjoyed great success with its Avatar NFTs, partnered with Google to shape the policy. “We are working with Google to help update their policies aimed at creating a level playing field that promotes user trust and responsible use of blockchain technology,” said Matt Williamson, senior engineering manager at Reddit, in a press release. .
The policy change follows a history of Google taking a hard line against blockchain-based apps. In 2018, Google banned crypto mining apps, which remain banned. More recently, Google kicked the blockchain-based game “Bitcoin Blast” from the Play Store in 2021.
However, the company signaled a new direction by allowing ArDrive Mobile, a decentralized data storage app, on its platform in 2022 and including the blockchain game Axie Infinity: Origins in select markets.
Google Cloud also announced an initiative in April 2023 to help Web3 developers accelerate their startups based on Polygon protocols.
In comparison, Apple’s App Store allows NFTs but continues to use NFTs to unlock content and restrict alternative payment methods such as cryptocurrency, reaffirming its position at the end of 2022.
Google’s move to embrace NFTs may usher in a new era of blockchain integration into mainstream technology, but the wider industry’s response remains to be seen.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by an nft now contributor in collaboration with OpenAI’s GPT-4.