Google Play Console Developer Program Policy

Implications

• Apps that do not prohibit exploitation or abuse of children will be immediately removed.
• Apps must not use APIs or SDKs that are not approved for use in primarily child-directed services.
• Apps must not engage in deceptive promotion practices.
• Apps must not manipulate their placement on Google Play through fraudulent means like fake reviews.
• Apps must not contain or promote sexual content or profanity.
• Apps must not promote violence or incite hatred against protected groups.
• Apps must not facilitate the sale of explosives, firearms, ammunition, or certain firearms accessories.
• Apps must not facilitate the sale of marijuana, regardless of legality.
• Apps must not facilitate the sale of tobacco or encourage the illegal or inappropriate use of alcohol or tobacco.
• Apps must not expose users to deceptive or harmful financial products and services.
• Apps must not enable or facilitate users’ ability to wager, stake, or participate in gambling.
• Apps must not facilitate or promote illegal activities.
• Apps must not contain user-generated content without robust moderation.
• Apps must not promote harmful health content and services.
• Apps must not infringe on intellectual property rights.
• Apps must not deceive users or enable dishonest behavior.
• Apps must not contain malware or engage in any malicious activities.
• Apps must not interfere with, disrupt, damage, or access in an unauthorized manner the user’s device or data.
• Apps must not mimic or impersonate any person or organization.
• Apps must not use deceptive ads or manipulative monetization and advertising tactics.
• Apps must not violate the privacy or data security of users.
• Apps must not use permissions or APIs that access sensitive information for undisclosed, unimplemented, or disallowed features or purposes.
• Apps must not use VPN services in a way that harms user privacy or security.
• Apps targeting children must follow strict content and data handling policies.
• Apps must not have low-quality or minimal functionality.
• Apps must not spam users or Google Play.
• Apps must not have misleading, improperly formatted, non-descriptive, irrelevant, excessive, or inappropriate metadata.
• Apps must not undermine user trust in the Google Play ecosystem.
• Apps must provide accurate developer account information, including legal name and address.
• Apps must provide a privacy policy and fill out the Data safety section requirements.
• Apps must provide demo accounts and other resources needed for Google Play to review the app.
• Apps must support the latest version of Unicode Emoji when running on Android 12+.
• Apps designed for families must opt in to be rated for the Teacher Approved program.
• Apps must comply with all Google Play Developer Program Policies and the Developer Distribution Agreement.

Things to watch out for

• Apps that target children have strict content and data handling requirements that must be followed.
• Apps must not engage in deceptive promotion practices or manipulate their placement on Google Play.
• Apps must not contain or promote sexual content, violence, hate speech, or facilitate the sale of prohibited items.
• Apps must not infringe on intellectual property rights or deceive users.
• Apps must not contain malware or engage in any malicious activities.
• Apps must not interfere with the operation of the device or collect sensitive data without proper disclosure and consent.
• Apps must not use deceptive ads or manipulative monetization and advertising tactics.
• Apps must not have low-quality or minimal functionality.
• Apps must not spam users or Google Play.
• Apps must not have misleading metadata that could confuse users.

FAQs

What happens if an app is found to be in violation of Google Play policies?

If an app violates Google Play policies, it may be rejected, removed, or suspended from Google Play. In severe cases, the developer's account may be terminated.

Are there specific requirements for apps that target children?

Yes, apps that target children must comply with strict content and data handling policies, including not collecting personal information without consent and providing a safe online environment.

Can developers appeal enforcement actions taken by Google Play?

Yes, developers can appeal enforcement actions if they believe an error was made. They must provide evidence that their app complies with all policies.