Breaking Down Google Play’s Policy Update
Google Play has rolled out a significant policy change targeting cryptocurrency wallet and exchange applications.
Starting now, developers must declare their financial features and meet local licensing requirements if they want to remain available on the Play Store in specific regions.
This could directly affect popular Terra Classic ecosystem apps like Station Wallet and Keplr — especially in the United States and the European Union.
Key Requirements by Region
United States
Crypto wallet and exchange apps must:
- Be registered with FinCEN as a Money Services Business (MSB)
- Hold state-level money transmitter licenses (or be a chartered bank)
Without these licenses, developers cannot target US users through Google Play.
European Union (MiCA Regulations)
Under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, apps must be authorized as Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASP).
- Without CASP authorization → No targeting EU users on Google Play.
- France: Until June 30, 2026, an AMF DASP registration is accepted.
- Germany: Until Dec 31, 2025, a BaFin license is accepted.
After these dates, MiCA CASP authorization becomes mandatory.
Non-Custodial Wallets: In or Out?
Google specifies that non-custodial wallets are “out of scope” for these specific financial licensing rules.
However, all apps — custodial or not — must still comply with local laws and Google Play’s general policies.
The distinction matters:
- Non-custodial wallets like Keplr may be unaffected if they do not offer integrated exchange or fiat ramps.
- Custodial wallets or hybrid apps may need full licensing.
Potential Impact on Terra Classic Apps
If Station Wallet or Keplr fail to meet these new licensing requirements:
- They could be removed from Google Play in the affected regions.
- Users might lose access to updates or new installs.
- The LUNC community could be forced to shift to alternative wallets.
However, some community members believe this won’t be a major issue, suggesting Trust Wallet as an alternative — though it too would need proper licensing to remain on the store.
Why This Matters for the LUNC Community
For many users, Android apps are the primary gateway to managing Terra Classic assets like LUNC and USTC.
A removal from Google Play in key markets would:
- Limit accessibility for new users.
- Increase reliance on sideloading APKs (with associated risks).
- Potentially reduce transaction volume in the ecosystem.
Bottom Line
Google Play’s updated policy could reshape how crypto wallets operate globally.
For Terra Classic, the outcome will depend on whether Station Wallet, Keplr, and other ecosystem apps can secure the right licenses or adjust their offerings to remain compliant.
