Google Enhances Search Features for Crypto Users
Google has recently expanded its search features to enable users to search for crypto wallet balances across various blockchains, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Avalanche, Optimism, Polygon, and Fantom. By simply entering a wallet address, users can now access the token balance categorized by the network and the timestamp of the last update. This expansion follows Google’s earlier introduction of Ethereum Name Service (ENS) domain search results, allowing users to check wallet balances using readable domain names like “vitalik.eth” for Ethereum wallet addresses.
Enhanced Crypto Search Features on Google
Google has been steadily improving its crypto-related features, starting with Ethereum wallet balance searches last year. In May 2023, Google introduced a feature that allows specific Ethereum wallet addresses to have their Ether (ETH) balances tracked directly within the search engine, eliminating the need to visit external platforms like Etherscan. The expansion was made possible by the Ethereum Name Service (ENS), which offers human-readable domains like example.eth that can be linked to Ethereum wallets.
- Users can search for an ENS domain in Google’s search results
- Google displays the wallet balance associated with the blockchain address linked to that domain
- Information is sourced from Etherscan and reflects the latest state as of the last external transaction
Google’s Multi-Blockchain Wallet Balances Search
In addition to Ethereum, Google has extended its features to allow users to search wallet balances across multiple blockchains, including Bitcoin, Arbitrum, Avalanche, Optimism, Polygon, and Fantom. Users can view the token balance by network along with the last updated time. This inclusion of wallet searches signifies a shift in Google’s approach to cryptocurrencies.
- Google previously prohibited Bitcoin-related advertisements in 2018
- Recently reversed this policy to allow Bitcoin ETF advertisements
- Notable ETF products from asset managers now appear in search results
Google’s Updated Crypto Ad Policy
Google has updated its advertising policy to include promotions for approved Bitcoin ETFs and Cryptocurrency Coin Trust products. US marketers can now advertise these products, which focus on financial instruments that allow investors to trade shares in trusts holding digital currency pools. This policy change aligns with the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs on January 10, providing investors with alternative investment options.
- Google’s advertising network is the largest globally
- Turnover of over $224 billion in advertising
- Expectation of more investors entering the market with accessible investment options
Concerns and Privacy in the Crypto Space
While Google’s integration of Bitcoin data into search results enhances accessibility to on-chain activity, some concerns have been raised by privacy-centric Bitcoin supporters. There are apprehensions about centralized data aggregation and its potential impact on user privacy, sparking a broader discussion on the balance between convenience and privacy in the crypto space.
- Users can search for three Bitcoin address formats to view balances and transaction updates
- Feature may not be universally available to all users
- Privacy concerns raised regarding centralized data aggregation
Hot Take: Google’s Evolution in the Crypto Landscape
In conclusion, Google’s evolution in the crypto landscape signifies a significant shift in the tech giant’s approach to cryptocurrencies. By expanding its search features to encompass wallet balances across multiple blockchains and updating its ad policy to allow promotions for approved Bitcoin ETFs and Coin Trust products, Google is catering to the growing interest in digital assets. While these enhancements provide users with more accessible information and investment options, they also raise important considerations around privacy and data security in the crypto space.
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