Google Play Policy Updates October: Essential Changes for App Developers

As a developer, staying updated with policy changes is crucial for maintaining your app's compliance and ensuring a seamless user experience. The latest Google Play policy updates, effective October 30, 2024, bring several important changes across various app categories.

This guide aims to help you understand these updates and provide actionable advice on how to adapt your apps accordingly.

Key Policy Changes

Health and Medical Apps

- Expanded Medical Features Policy

📕 Policy Update: The scope of the medical features policy is being expanded to include the latest medical guidance and disclaimer requirements. Health-related policies are now integrated into the Health content and services page.

💡 Expert Advice: It's essential to review and update your app to align with the new medical guidance and disclaimer requirements. Ensure that all health-related content is accurate and compliant with the latest standards to maintain user trust and avoid potential policy violations.

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Use of Third-Party Code

- Clarification on Enforcement Process

📕 Policy Update: Updates to the enforcement process page provide more clarity on how using third-party code (such as SDKs) within your app may impact policy compliance.

💡 Expert Advice: Conduct a thorough audit of your app's third-party code usage. Ensure that all SDKs and external libraries comply with Google Play’s policies. Regularly update and monitor these components to mitigate any compliance risks.

User Data and Privacy Protection

- Updated Privacy Guidelines

📕 Policy Update: The Protecting User Data and Privacy section of the Mobile Unwanted Software Policy has been updated to guide developers to the most relevant policies.

💡 Expert Advice: Re-evaluate your app’s data handling practices to ensure they meet the updated privacy guidelines. Implement robust data protection measures and clearly communicate your privacy practices to users.

Important Reminders

Social and Dating Apps

- Child Safety Standards Self-Certification

📕 Policy Update: By January 22, 2025, social and dating apps must self-certify in the Play Console to comply with the new child safety standards policy.

💡 Expert Advice: Prepare for the self-certification process by thoroughly understanding the new child safety standards. Utilize resources such as the Tech Coalition's best practices guide to ensure your app is fully compliant and prioritizes user safety.

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Photo and Video Permissions

- Extended Deadlines for Compliance

📕 Policy Update: The deadline for the Photo and Video Permissions policy has been extended. Starting January 22, 2025, apps may only access photos and videos for purposes directly related to app functionality.

💡 Expert Advice: Review your app's permissions and ensure they are necessary for its functionality. Consider using system pickers for accessing media files to comply with the new guidelines. If additional time is needed, apply for an extension by the specified deadlines.

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Conclusion

Google Play's latest policy updates are designed to enhance user safety, data privacy, and compliance with health regulations. By understanding and implementing these changes, you can ensure your app remains compliant and continues to deliver value to users.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, consider reaching out through the provided forms or accessing additional resources in the Play Console.

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