Thousands of apps on the Google Play Store may suddenly disappear next month.Google is updating its app store policies to require Android apps on the Google Play Store to actually work, with specific examples of what that means. By the end of next month, Play Store apps “designed to do nothing” or that “have no function” will not be allowed.Android apps that don’t install or load, as well as apps that freeze or crash, will also not be allowed on the Play Store going forward. Static apps, or those that have one basic feature like displaying a single image or wallpaper, will also be banned.”We’re updating the Spam and Minimum Functionality policy to ensure apps meet uplifted standards for the Play catalog and engage users through quality functionality and content user experiences,” Google said of the changes. Google’s previous policy on app functionality was more sparse, requiring apps to provide a “stable, engaging, responsive user experience.” Now, the tech giant is raising the bar on what that looks like, and this could result in a big app purge on the Play store.
Recommended by Our Editors
Unfortunately, not all Google Play Store apps are created equal. Just because an app is listed on the Play Store or Apple’s App Store doesn’t mean it’s guaranteed to be safe, free of malware, or function as expected. Some Android apps on the Play Store have been found to contain malware, with many targeting your bank account details. Apple’s App Store isn’t immune to questionable apps, either, and had to take down a fake password-storing app pretending to be LastPass earlier this year.
Get Our Best Stories!
Sign up for What’s New Now to get our top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
