Google is set to allow apps and games on the Android Play Store to offer NFTs

Google's Play Store is taking steps to provide what they call a "safe, transparent, and trustworthy experience" for blockchain games and NFTs.

Earlier this year, Google announced that they were exploring policy changes for the Google Play Store to enable developers to integrate NFTs into their Android games. Now, the tech giant has revealed new rules allowing and regulating blockchain games and apps, expected to be fully implemented by the end of this year.

"As part of the policy update, we require apps to be transparent with users about encrypted digital assets," Google stated.

The new policies will require blockchain game developers to clearly highlight their game as blockchain games on the Google Play Store—similar to how Epic Games provides a disclaimer about blockchain games so users can be informed.

If any apps feature corresponding NFTs, developers must clarify this with users, as per Google's regulations.

Google's open approach to blockchain games will enable developers to implement NFTs and cryptocurrency integrations under the condition that developers do not violate Google's gambling policies. Developers are not allowed to "advertise or solicit" any cryptocurrency transaction activities or NFTs.

While Google will allow game developers to offer NFTs in games for players, NFTs cannot be wagered or used in sweepstakes. Any betting or gambling mechanisms will require developers to comply with Google's gambling eligibility requirements.

"NFTs purchased by users must be used or utilized in the game to enhance the user experience or support users in advancing the game," Google's rules state. "NFTs cannot be used for betting or gambling to exchange for real-world monetary prize opportunities."

Under the new policies, developers will not be allowed to sell NFT "packs" without disclosing specific content and value of the pack.

Google also prohibits any apps from mining cryptocurrency on users' devices, an older policy that Google will continue to enforce. However, Google will continue to allow apps to remotely manage cryptocurrency mining activities on other devices, such as computer graphics cards.

Google's blockchain game rules will be gradually implemented.

Currently, Google will work with selected game developers to "test and iterate new user experiences" for blockchain games. According to the blog post, NFL Rivals developer Mythical Games and bulletin board giant Reddit are two companies collaborating with Google to refine and iterate their NFT policies.

Matt Williamson, Reddit's senior technical director, said: "We have collaborated with Google to help update their policies to create a level playing field to promote user trust and responsible use of blockchain technology."

Although Google is currently partnering with a few entities, all game developers worldwide can build games under Google's new digital currency game policies by the end of this year.

Google's competitor, the Apple App Store, has previously applied a more restrictive approach to NFTs and cryptocurrencies. While NFTs can be traded on the iOS operating system, users still incur a 30% fee.