Google’s Ongoing Conflict with Cryptocurrency
In a recent turn of events, Google has once again found itself at odds with the cryptocurrency sector, following the suspension of the Android version of the messaging application Bitchat, created by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. This suspension, attributed to alleged profanity, comes on the heels of a controversial policy update regarding crypto wallets, which inadvertently led to the banning of non-custodial wallets from the Google Play Store, prompting an apology from the tech giant.
Controversial Policy Update
The controversy began last week when The Rage highlighted troubling wording in Google’s new Play Store guidelines, which effectively required all cryptocurrency wallets to possess government licensing. This requirement raised alarms within the crypto community, as it threatened the existence of non-custodial wallets. Google swiftly addressed the backlash by clarifying the policy, attempting to diffuse what some labeled a “crypto coup.”
Suspension of Bitchat
However, the situation escalated again when Calle, a pseudonymous developer and physicist behind Bitchat, announced the suspension of the app on Google Play due to its name being deemed vulgar.
You must be kidding me, right Google Play?
Calle expressed his disbelief on social media. With prior compliance with Google’s requirements, Calle had high hopes for the release of the Android app, but faced multiple hurdles throughout the submission process, including the accidental approval of a fraudulent version that amassed about 100,000 downloads.
Challenges in App Publication
Despite resubmitting the genuine Bitchat application five different times—earning himself some online support to tackle Google’s reasoning—Calle’s attempts were thwarted by demands that he provide twelve testers over a two-week period before being allowed to publish. The app’s title, while edgy, does contain a vulgar term, which played a crucial role in its ongoing suspension.
Current Status and Outlook
At the moment, Google and Calle have yet to reach a resolution, as frustration from Calle regarding the entire ordeal is evident. He lamented the experience, questioning if personal connections at Google are a prerequisite for app publication. On a more positive note, Google indicated it is looking into the situation, having promised Calle that the matter was being escalated for further investigation.
