Google Play announced yesterday that it will allow developers to incorporate digital assets such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) into their apps and games in the store. The company said that this will allow developers to “reimagine traditional games with user-owned content” and “boost user loyalty through unique NFT rewards.”
In a blog post, Google Play’s Group Product Manager Joseph Mills said that the new policy is “aimed at creating a level playing field that promotes user trust, and responsible usage of blockchain technology.” He added that developers will be required to make it clear in the Play Console that their apps contain blockchain-based elements.
The policy change comes after Google had previously been criticized for its handling of blockchain-based apps. In 2021, the company removed the game “Bitcoin Blast” from the Play Store without providing a clear explanation. However, in recent months, Google has signaled a shift in attitude towards Web3, allowing ArDrive Mobile, an app for decentralized data storage, to appear in the store in 2022 as well as allowing Axie Infinity: Origins to be listed in select Google Play markets.
A spokesperson from Google Play said that users may see the first tests of the new experiences in late summer as they work with an initial group of developers, and that the new policy will roll out in full later this year.
What does this mean for NFTs?
The decision by Google Play to allow NFTs in its app store is a significant step forward for the adoption of NFTs. It means that NFTs will now be able to reach a much wider audience, and that developers will be able to create new and innovative applications for NFTs.
It is still too early to say what the long-term impact of this decision will be. However, it is clear that NFTs are becoming increasingly mainstream, and that Google’s decision is a sign of the growing acceptance of this technology.
