Google has announced a new set of policies to eliminate untrustworthy apps from its Android app marketplace, Google Play. The search giant says that the changes should get rid of deceptive apps, tighten subscription guidelines, and give users more control over how their data is being used.
One of the changes is focused on location tracking, which is a common permission request in most apps. Knowing their users' location data is beneficial for developers since it can be sold to third-party trackers that give advertisers information about who downloaded the app, which in turn supplies the developer with additional earnings.
Google will now require developers to get approval prior to accessing their users' background location. Existing apps will have until November 2020 to make changes.
Another common issue at the Play Store is those of subscription-based apps. Developers can make a whole lot of money by urging their customers to subscribe. This is the strategy being used by some app developers as it generates more income compared to other money-making methods, such as in-app purchases, ads, or paid downloads.
While efficient for developers, most customers are duped in subscribing without them knowing how to dismiss a subscription offer to use the free features of an app. Some apps also don't have clear terms, how long a trial period will last, and other undisclosed guidelines designed to force users into paying for the app.
Google Play will now force developers to be clear and concise about their terms of subscription, offers, and trials. The company is giving developers time to compy until June 2020.
Another helpful policy on Google Play has to do with "Deceptive Behavior." A lot of apps aren't clear about their behavior once they're downloaded. This change is implemented to stop the spread of "deepfakes" or manipulated content on Google's Android app marketplace. The search giant is giving Google Play apps 30 days to comply with this policy update.
Google also addressed in its announcement the current situation the whole world is facing today, which is why it is making changes in order to help minimize the effect of coronavirus crisis. Unfortunately, there has been a growth in online scams as malicious actors have taken advantage of people's vulnerability in these trying times.
The new policies are meant to make Google Play apps safer and secure for everybody, and it doesn't sound like this may result in any mass banning. Anyhow, Google is giving developers enough time to comply.
