Policy Deadlines

We’re adding new guidelines to our Device and Network Abuse policy:

• For apps targeting Android 14 and above, a new set of policy restrictions will apply to the usage of foreground services (FGS). Apps can only declare foreground services (FGS) for appropriate use cases. Developers must also specify a valid foreground service type for each foreground service (FGS) used in your app, and declare the foreground service permission that is appropriate for that type.
• We’re introducing a new JobScheduler API and requirements that makes user-initiated data transfers easier and more transparent.

Announced 2023-04-05

To give users more control over their data, we're introducing a new account deletion requirement under our User Data policy. If your app allows users to create an account, then it must also allow users to request for their account to be deleted in the app and through a web resource. All developers must also update their Data safety form in Play Console, where some information may be displayed on your app’s Data safety section on Google Play.

Announced 2023-04-05

We’re introducing the Blockchain-based content policy that states developers must complete a declaration for apps that enable users to transact blockchain-based digital content. Additional requirements apply for NFT gamification to promote user transparency and safety.

Announced 2023-07-12

To give developers more control over where their apps appear, we’re updating our Device and Network Abuse policy to state that all apps running On-device Android Containers, which simulate all or portions of the Android OS, must respect the new REQUIRE_SECURE_ENV flag. Apps can add this flag to their manifest to indicate they don't want to be run in an On-device Android Container.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re updating our SDK Requirements to include guidelines for a recently announced Deceptive Behavior policy update.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re centralizing existing ads requirements to make it easier for you to find this information.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re updating the examples in our Tobacco and Alcohol policy to clarify our existing policy.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re updating our Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests policy to reflect completion of the Online Crane Games pilot program in Japan. Beginning July 12, 2023, Online Crane Game apps may be listed on Google Play globally subject to certain requirements, including a declaration form.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re introducing a new restricted permission requirement for Exact Alarm API, stating that apps must only declare this permission if their core functionality requires an exact alarm. Apps declaring the new restricted permission that do not meet these criteria will not be permitted on Google Play.

Announced 2022-07-27

We’re adding new guidelines to our Deceptive Behavior policy to provide guidance on “non-transparent behavior.” Developers must make the app’s functionality clear to users. We’re also emphasizing that techniques to evade app reviews are not allowed.

Announced 2023-07-12

To boost trust and transparency on Google Play, we’re updating our Play Console Requirements policy to expand what developer verification is required to publish apps. Developers must accurately provide their account information to make their app available to users. If registering as an organization, developers must ensure their account information is up to date and consistent with the details stored on their Dun & Bradstreet profile. This update will roll out to new developer accounts first. Existing developers will receive more information in October.

Announced 2023-07-12

To keep Google Play safe and secure for users, we’re updating our Financial Services policy to mandate that any app containing financial features must submit the Financial features declaration form (available end of July), along with supplementary information and documentation.

Announced 2023-07-12

We're updating the list of example APIs or SDKs that are not approved for use in apps that solely target children as part of our Families APIs and SDKs policy.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re introducing new requirements under our Personal Loans policy to state that personal loan apps operating in Thailand must provide documentation demonstrating their capacity to offer or assist with personal loans within the country.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re updating the Request Install Package Permission policy to expand the permitted functionalities to include companion apps used to sync Android phones to wearables or IoT devices.

Announced 2023-07-12

We’re updating the VPN policy to emphasize that VpnService cannot be used to engage in ad fraud.

Announced 2023-07-12