If you are an Android user like me, you probably already are well versed with the current condition of Google Playstore. Unlike Apple’s AppStore, there are no strict guidelines for the app developers meaning the platform is filled with catchy, clickbaity titles, images, descriptions. But finally, it looks like google is done with this stuff, and they are all set to implement strict guidelines for the developers, limiting all these shady activities.
Google updates its Google Play policies
Google has just published an update on Android Developers Blog, introducing stringent policies for the app publishers. Google said that earlier, it was easy to get noticed on the play store as there were only a few hundred apps but fast forward to today, it has become much competitive.
Today, app screenshots, videos, descriptions, and titles are essential to users to decide what to download. (and clearly, some app publishers are exploiting this by using CAPATILISED titles, clickbait screenshots, and trailers that completely different from the actual app gameplay/interface). Google has decided that app details on the play store shall help users anticipate the in-app experience and derive meaningful downloads. Therefore they are introducing a new stricter policy that will go live in the second half of 2021. The highlights of this new policy are:
- Limiting the length of app titles to 30 characters
- Prohibiting keywords that imply store performance, promotion in the icon, title, and developer name
- Eliminating graphic elements that may mislead users in the app icon
The real-life implication of these guidelines means that app publishers will no more be able to use fake screenshot images/video, catchy titles with words like ‘free,’ ‘download now,’ ‘sale,’ and upload app images with trophies pretending to be the number one in the category, etc.
Google has also clearly said that all the developers who won’t comply with these policy requirements will not be allowed on Google Play. Google has given a few months time for the developers to make changes to their current apps and make them comply with the requirements. The policy will come into force later this year.
What does it mean for the users?
It is actually a great move by google. Play store is filled with misleading app information and titles. This is the primary reason most android users uninstall an app within 5 minutes of its download because the app turns out to be nothing that the developers claimed on the play store listing page. In the next 6 months, we can expect the play store to provide a much better experience to the users, just like what the apple AppStore currently is capable of.
Also Read: Top 5 Most Downloaded Mobile Games of 2020
We personally are delighted with this initiative of Google. In the mobile gaming category, most apps actually use clickbaits, and we are tired of it, and this might solve our problem. What are your views on this matter? Do let us know in the comments below.
