Every now and again, Google makes changes to its Play Store’s content policies. The developer has come forth with a set of updates to its guidelines. There are some additional categories here which involve cryptocurrencies, as well as ads.
First off, Google is banning applications that “appeal to children but contain adult themes”. This comes in light of the ‘Elsagate’ controversy, in which videos with familiar children characters were being uploaded to YouTube only to feature mature content. This ban extends beyond videos now to both apps and games.
Google also no longer allows cryptocurrency miners on the Play Store. Although mining cryptocurrency is hardly a lucrative method these days, they’re still prevalent that Google wants to phase them out. However, apps that remotely manage the mining of cryptocurrency are permitted. This means that apps featuring cloud-based mining rather than on the device should be fine.
Apart from that, in an effort to mitigate possibilities of physical harm, Google also bans applications that “facilitate the sale of explosives, firearms, ammunition, or certain firearms accessories”. This also includes apps which provide instructions for the manufacture of explosives, firearms, ammunition, restricted firearm accessories, or other weapons.
Next, the Play Store also now bans “multiple apps with highly similar content and user experience” or “apps that are created by an automated tool, wizard service, or based on templates and submitted to Google Play by the operator of that service on behalf of other persons.” Essentially, any apps which clearly mimic other apps won’t be allowed here. This will help curb plagiarism, as such things can run rampant if unmoderated.
Lastly, Google is banning apps that force users to click on ads or submit personal information to progress. Apps “that impersonate any person or organization, or that misrepresent or conceal their ownership or primary purpose” are also getting slashed.
You can read the Play Store developer policies in more detail here.
(Source: Android Police)
