Google Play will require crypto wallet providers in over 15 jurisdictions, including the United States and the European Union, to obtain licenses and comply with industry standards under an updated policy effective October 29, 2025. This policy update does not affect non-custodial wallets. Developers in the US must register with local regulators as either a money services business or money transmitter, while those in the EU must register as a crypto-asset service provider (CASP). In the United States, companies registered with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) as money services businesses are required to implement a written Anti-Money Laundering (AML) program. This requirement may lead to wider adoption of Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and other compliance measures. Google addressed concerns from the crypto community regarding the policy's impact on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), clarifying that non-custodial wallets are not within the scope of Google Play’s Cryptocurrency Exchanges and Software Wallets Policy. The company is updating its Help Center to reflect this clarification. Simon Dixon, a notable figure in the crypto space, publicly opposed the new rules, stating, “Google bans unlicensed Bitcoin and crypto wallets in the US & Europe. They really want Blackrock to own it for you. Fight back with Bitcoin in self-custody.”

Google Play Store's Complex History with Crypto Apps

Google Play has had a complicated relationship with crypto applications. In 2018, it banned crypto mining apps and removed the Bitcoin Blast video game in 2020 for deceptive practices. That same year, it also took down crypto news apps, including Cointelegraph’s and Coindesk’s, without explanation. In 2021, Google banned eight “deceptive” crypto apps that allegedly misled users into paying for illegitimate cloud services. In 2023, Google permitted non-fungible token (NFT) games on the platform but required developers to disclose NFT features and banned gambling elements such as loot boxes, which offer random mystery items to players. According to Google Play Store’s blockchain content guidelines, four types of apps warrant special attention: cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets, crypto wallets, apps distributing tokenized digital assets, and NFT gamification apps.

Q: What is the effective date of Google Play's updated policy for crypto wallet providers? A: The updated policy will be effective October 29, 2025. Q: Does this policy affect non-custodial wallets? A: No, the policy update explicitly states that it does not affect non-custodial wallets. Q: What are the registration requirements for developers in the United States under this new policy? A: Developers in the US must register with local regulators as either a money services business or a money transmitter. Q: What are the registration requirements for developers in the European Union? A: Developers in the EU must register as a crypto-asset service provider (CASP). Q: What does the policy imply for the adoption of KYC and AML measures? A: The policy may lead to wider adoption of Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and other compliance measures, particularly due to the requirement for registered businesses in the US to implement a written Anti-Money Laundering (AML) program. Q: What was Simon Dixon's reaction to the new rules? A: Simon Dixon opposed the new rules, suggesting that Google's actions favor institutional control and encouraging self-custody of Bitcoin as a countermeasure. Q: Has Google Play had issues with crypto apps in the past? A: Yes, Google Play has a history of issues with crypto apps, including banning crypto mining apps, removing deceptive apps, and taking down crypto news apps without explanation. Q: What types of blockchain-related apps require special attention under Google Play's guidelines? A: The guidelines highlight cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets, crypto wallets, apps distributing tokenized digital assets, and NFT gamification apps.

Crypto Market AI's Take

This updated policy from Google Play signifies a significant step towards greater regulatory clarity and security within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. As more traditional platforms integrate crypto functionalities, adherence to compliance standards becomes paramount. At Crypto Market AI, we recognize the importance of robust security and regulatory adherence, which is why our platform is built with enterprise-grade security protocols and comprehensive compliance with global regulations. Our focus on AI-driven market intelligence and trading tools is designed to empower users while ensuring a secure and compliant trading environment. Explore our AI-powered trading bots and market analysis tools to navigate the evolving crypto landscape with confidence.

Google Play sets new licensing rules on crypto wallet developers

Google Play Store's Complex History with Crypto Apps

Crypto Market AI's Take

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