#Google is making changes to its Play Store policies to accommodate blockchain games and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in an effort to create a safe and transparent experience for users. The tech giant recently announced new rules that will allow and regulate blockchain games and apps on the Play Store, with a full rollout expected by the end of the year.

Under the new policy, developers of blockchain games will be required to disclose the game's blockchain status on its content page. If in-app products have corresponding NFTs, developers must make that clear to users. Unlike Apple, Google will allow NFTs to unlock in-app content, regardless of where the NFT was purchased.

Google's approach to #blockchain gaming is cautious yet open-minded. Developers will be able to implement NFTs and other crypto integrations as long as they adhere to Google's policies on real-money gambling, games, and contests. They are not allowed to promote or glamorize crypto or NFT trading activities. In-game NFTs can be offered to players, but wagering and sweepstakes are prohibited. #NFTs should be used to enhance the user's gaming experience and cannot be used for gambling or staking purposes.

Google also prohibits apps that mine cryptocurrency on users' devices, although it allows apps that facilitate remote management of crypto mining activities on other devices. The rollout of Google's blockchain game rules will happen gradually, with visible effects expected in the summer.

Google is collaborating with select game developers, including Mythical Games and Reddit, to refine and iterate its #NFT policies. While these partnerships are currently limited, all developers will be able to build games in accordance with Google's new crypto gaming policies later this year.

In contrast, Apple's App Store has been more restrictive in its approach to NFTs and crypto. Although developers can use NFTs in iOS games and apps, #Apple takes a 30% commission on transactions. This has led some developers to offer NFTs at higher prices on iOS to cover Apple's fees.

Will SpaceCatch also benefit from this?

The game SpaceCatch aims to be a leader in the field of metaverse games. By incorporating modern technologies such as the metaverse, blockchain, and NFTs, in combination with the traditional gaming industry, it offers players a completely new gaming experience.

One significant advantage is that, unlike Web 2.0 games, SpaceCatch allows players to fully own in-game items through NFT and blockchain technology. The game will create a comprehensive gaming ecosystem with a realistic economy that enables players to earn real money by playing the game.

In traditional games, the game itself takes all the profits and earnings from players. However, decentralization is crucial in the metaverse and Web 3.0 world, which is why the creators of SpaceCatch have decided to relinquish some of the game's revenue and redistribute it directly among the players.

Will Apple's Controversial Guidelines Stifle the Growth of Crypto-Based Social Media?

In an unexpected turn of events, #Apple has decided to remove the decentralized social platform #Damus from its App Store. The cause? Damus' unique Bitcoin tipping feature, or "zaps" as it's known among users.⚡

But what's behind this tussle, and why does it matter? Let's delve into the fine print.

The Backstory

Heralded as a rival to Twitter, Damus is an innovative application built on the Nostr decentralized social platform. Interestingly, Nostr has been backed by none other than Twitter's own Jack Dorsey.

The Damus application took the social media space by storm with its "zaps" feature. This allows users to tip their favorite posts using #bitcoin . But while this feature has been a hit with users, it hasn't won over everyone—specifically, the team behind Apple's App Store.

Apple Vs. Damus: The Bitcoin Tipping Dilemma

Apple's App Store review process raised an eyebrow at the "zaps" feature, perceiving these Bitcoin tips as in-app purchases of digital content. According to Apple's policy, such purchases should only be conducted via Apple's in-app purchase system.

The situation culminated when Apple gave Damus a two-week notice to remove this feature, citing a violation of Guideline 3.1.1 - business payments. In a bid to uphold its unique selling point, Damus replied to Apple's concerns by explaining that no in-app content was unlocked by providing a tip. However, their defense fell on deaf ears.

source: nostr

Understanding Apple's Stance

Apple's stern stand on the issue has sparked controversy and raised questions about its guidelines. Over the years, these guidelines have often been criticized, especially when it comes to discussions about cryptocurrency. It's worth noting that Apple wants to maintain control over transactions on its platform to the extent legally permissible, and Bitcoin tipping seemingly undermines that control.

While Damus argues that no content is being unlocked via a tip, which indeed seems to be the case, the crux of the issue lies elsewhere. Apple is presumably more concerned about transactions, including Bitcoin tips, that could be regulated via in-app purchases.

The Road Ahead for Damus

So what's next for Damus?

It is likely that Damus could adapt its tipping feature to work through in-app purchased coins, which could then be converted to currency. But the volatile nature of Bitcoin adds a layer of complexity that makes such a simple exchange challenging.

Barring any unexpected developments, Damus is scheduled for removal from the App Store on June 27. The outcome remains uncertain, as either side may yield, or Apple might craft a new guideline that more specifically categorizes tipping as an in-app purchase.

Conclusion

The Damus vs. Apple saga is a perfect example of how the intersection of #cryptocurrency and app store policies can lead to unexpected challenges. As the world of technology continues to evolve, situations like this will likely become more common, prompting a need for more nuanced and flexible regulations. Until then, all eyes will be on Damus and Apple, eagerly waiting to see the ripple effect of their dispute on the wider tech landscape.

$BTC