Google Play has announced new policy updates effective July 17, 2024, requiring developers to comply with new standards for organization registration, content, permissions, and more in UK.
The latest policy announcement from Google Play, dated July 17, 2024, introduces a series of updates and changes that app developers must adhere to.
Developers have a 30-day window from the announcement date to align their apps with these new standards. This article aims to distill these policy adjustments and provide strategic insights for developers.
Google Play now requires developers offering financial products and services, health services, VPNs, and government services to register as an Organization.
💡 Are you working on these categories of apps? Seek help from our expert team!
✉️ Fintech App Solutions
✉️ Health & Fitness App Solutions
✉️ VPN App Solutions
This initiative aims to enhance transparency and ensure continuity for critical and sensitive services.
Initially, the policy will apply to new developer accounts, with existing developers receiving more information later this year.
⚠️ Notes: Ensure your app complies with this new requirement by updating your developer account information promptly.
The Spam and Minimum Functionality policy has been updated to ensure apps meet elevated standards for the Play catalog. Apps must engage users through quality functionality and content experiences.
💡 Expert Tips: Enhance your app's functionality and user experience to meet these new standards. Consider incorporating user feedback to improve app features.
The SDK Requirements page now includes additional examples of SDK-caused policy violations, specifically for Spyware and Foreground Services.
The Malware policy has been updated to require app developers to remove third-party code (such as SDKs) if the code provider is known to distribute malicious software.
The Permissions Policy for Personal Loans now explicitly includes Earned Wage Access (EWA) applications, which are prohibited from accessing sensitive permissions.
The scope of the inappropriate content policy has been expanded to cover all nicotine products, including non-tobacco nicotine and nicotine pouches. An exception is made for products marketed as nicotine cessation aids, subject to age-gating safeguards.
💡 Expert Tips: Review your app's content to ensure it complies with these updated guidelines, especially if your app deals with nicotine products.
The Enforcement Process page has been updated with more detailed explanations of enforcement actions.
An exception has been added to the Use of SMS or Call Log permission groups for System services. Additionally, the list of CALL_LOG permission group exceptions now supports secure financial transaction calls for banking and brokerage apps.
💡 Expert Tips: If your app uses SMS or Call Log permissions, review the new exceptions and update your app accordingly to ensure compliance.
Starting August 31, 2024, new app submissions and updates must target Android 14 (API level 34), except for Wear and TV OS apps, which must target Android 13 (API level 33) or higher.
Existing apps must target Android 13 (API level 33) or higher to remain available to new users on devices running newer Android OS versions. Developers can use the new SDK Upgrade Assistant in Android Studio and may request an extension until November 1, 2024, if needed.
The Photo and Video Permissions policy, introduced last October, will be enforced starting October 31, 2024. Apps may only access photos and videos for purposes directly related to app functionality.
Apps with occasional needs to access these files should use a system picker, such as the Android photo picker.
💡 Expert Tips: Ensure your app's access to photos and videos is directly related to its functionality. If not, implement a system picker to comply with the new policy.
Starting August 31, 2024, the existing form-based application for Health Connect permissions will be replaced with a new Play Console declaration.
The Google Play Families Self-Certified Ads SDK Program will accept new applicants until October 31, 2024. The application window will reopen in 2025, with guidelines announced at a later date. Current participants and their compliance requirements will remain unchanged.
For apps using the USE_FULL_SCREEN_INTENT permission and targeting Android 14+, developers must complete the Play Console declaration to indicate if their app has a permitted core functionality.
Starting October 31, 2024, those not approved will need to prompt users to grant permission on new installs and gracefully adjust the experience if denied.
>>> Check More details here
The recent policy updates by Google Play underline the platform's commitment to user safety, app functionality, and regulatory compliance. Developers need to review these changes carefully and adjust their apps accordingly to avoid potential compliance issues.
Stay informed about more App Store and Google Play policy updates by registering ASOWolrd!
App Store Optimization,Google Play Ranking Algorithm,News,
Get FREE Optimization Consultation
Let's Grow Your App & Get Massive Traffic!
All content, layout and frame code of all ASOWorld blog sections belong to the original content and technical team, all reproduction and references need to indicate the source and link in the obvious position, otherwise legal responsibility will be pursued.
COVID-19 UPDATE 
