Google has announced a major policy update for apps involving blockchain-based content, such as cryptocurrency exchanges, software wallets, NFT games, and tokenized digital assets. This update, effective October 29, 2025, will tighten control over how developers handle in-app purchases, earnings disclosures, and regulatory compliance.
This move is aimed at increasing user protection, reducing misleading crypto schemes, and creating a more transparent ecosystem on Google Play.
What is “Blockchain-Based Content”?
According to Google:
“Blockchain-based content refers to tokenized digital assets secured on a blockchain.”
This includes NFTs (non-fungible tokens), crypto tokens, and any digital items whose ownership is recorded on a blockchain like Ethereum, Solana, etc.
So whether your app is a wallet, a game offering NFTs, or a token marketplace — this policy applies to you.
Key Policy Sections and Detailed Explanation
1. Cryptocurrency Exchanges and Software Wallets
If your app lets users buy, hold, or exchange cryptocurrencies, you are now required to:
- Operate through certified services (e.g., licensed crypto exchanges)
- Ensure you’re functioning in regulated jurisdictions
- Follow the legal rules of all countries your app targets
- Be ready to provide compliance documents when Google asks
Purpose: Prevent unlicensed or shady crypto platforms from operating via mobile apps, especially in regions where crypto trading is banned or heavily regulated.
Example 1 (Compliant):
An app like Coinbase that holds licenses in the US, Europe, and follows all local KYC/AML laws.
Example 2 (Violation):
An anonymous wallet app allowing users to store and exchange crypto without any registration, with no mention of regulation or legal responsibility.
2. Cryptomining Restrictions
Google has reiterated that:
Apps that mine cryptocurrency directly on devices are not allowed.
However, apps that let users remotely manage mining hardware (like monitoring a mining rig at home) are permitted.
Reason: Mining drains battery, reduces device lifespan, and often runs in the background without user consent.
Example 3 (Violation):
An app that secretly mines Monero using the user’s mobile CPU, running in the background even when the app is closed.
Example 4 (Compliant):
An app that connects to a cloud mining dashboard, where users can monitor mining stats and earnings without using the phone’s processing power.
3. Transparency in Tokenized Digital Asset Distribution
If your app allows users to buy or earn tokenized assets (such as NFTs), you are now required to:
- Declare this via the Financial Features Declaration form on the Google Play Console
- Clearly label all in-app products that are tokenized digital assets
- Avoid promoting or glamorizing earning potential or profit promises related to blockchain rewards
Why This Matters: Many apps falsely advertise NFT games as “easy money” or “get rich by playing” — which misleads users, especially in regions where financial literacy is low.
Example 5 (Violation):
A game that says: “Play and earn $500 worth of tokens weekly! No investment needed!”
This promotes unrealistic earnings and fails to disclose risks or asset values.
Example 6 (Compliant):
An app that displays: “Purchase NFT Avatar – Price: $2.00. This NFT is stored on the Polygon blockchain.”
The asset is clearly labeled and the user understands what they’re buying.
4. NFT Gamification Rules
Apps that include NFTs as part of gameplay or progression must follow gambling compliance rules if there’s any real-world value involved.
Key rule:
If your app does not qualify as a licensed gambling app, then you cannot:
- Sell NFT bundles where contents/values are not disclosed
- Offer mystery NFTs in exchange for tokens, real money, or assets
- Allow staking NFTs for the chance to win other items of real-world value
NFTs should only be used to enhance gameplay or unlock game features — not as tools to gamble, wager, or win real money.
Example 7 (Violation):
A game offers a “Loot Chest NFT” for $4.99 without showing what’s inside. One out of every 100 chests contains a rare NFT worth $200. This qualifies as gambling.
Example 8 (Compliant):
A strategy game where players can buy an NFT shield to reduce damage in battles. The NFT has a fixed price and use — it doesn’t lead to monetary gain.
Summary of Common Violations (From Google’s Own Warnings)
| Violation Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Selling NFT bundles | Without revealing content and value upfront |
| In-app mining | Mining directly on user’s device |
| Earnings promotion | Claiming users will make money by playing/trading |
| Undeclared assets | Not listing tokenized assets in Play Console |
| NFT gambling | Exchanging real money for random NFTs of unknown value |
What Developers Should Do Now?
If you’re building or managing a blockchain-based app, here’s what needs to happen before October 29, 2025:
- Review your app’s features carefully for any blockchain or NFT involvement.
- Register financial components using the Play Console’s “Financial Features Declaration.”
- Avoid gambling mechanics unless your app is legally approved for it.
- Ensure transparency for all token sales and asset values.
- Never allow or support mining on user devices.
Google Play is not banning blockchain content — it is regulating it more strictly to prevent misuse, scams, and false advertising.
