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Google Play Exempts Self-Custody Crypto Wallets, Sets Licensing Deadline for Custodial Apps

Enforcement begins October 29, 2025, requiring custodial apps on Google Play to hold jurisdiction-specific licences.

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Overview

  • Google clarified that non-custodial self-custody wallets are exempt from its new Play Store licensing policy for crypto apps.
  • Custodial exchanges and wallet apps must register with FinCEN as MSBs and obtain state money transmitter licences in the United States.
  • Developers targeting EU markets must hold MiCA authorisation as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider, and UK apps must register with the FCA.
  • Enforcement is slated for October 29, 2025, but hybrid wallet models and transitional allowances in France and Germany lack clear guidance.
  • Smaller developers have reported inconsistent delistings during the rollout and warn that high compliance costs could concentrate the market among large, licensed firms.