Google is banning several types of apps from the Play Store. This includes apps that mine cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, apps aimed at children but which contain adult themes, and apps which help you buy, sell, or acquire firearms.
In April 2018, Google banned crypto-mining extensions from the Chrome Web Store. While “extensions with blockchain-related purposes other than mining” are still permitted, crypto-miners are banned. And now Google Play has followed suit.
Google Bans Multiple Apps
According to the latest update to its Developer Policy Center, Google no longer allows “apps that mine cryptocurrency on devices.” However, the company still permits “apps that remotely manage the mining of cryptocurrency.” And there is a difference.
Apps that mine cryptocurrency will use your CPU, with or without your knowledge. However, apps that just help you manage the mining of cryptocurrency are more administrative in nature. Still, banning crypto-miners outright may upset some people.
$Crypto History:#Bitcoin miners and their equipment, Summer 2011. pic.twitter.com/qDbAKTilk5
— The Crypto Dog? (@TheCryptoDog) July 24, 2018
Google is also cracking down on “apps that appeal to children but contain adult themes.” This will be in response to an upsurge in apps which use cartoon characters such as Elsa from Frozen, but contain imagery and ideas that aren’t suitable for children.
Google has also banned “apps that facilitate the sale of explosives, firearms, ammunition, or certain firearms accessories.” While this is likely to upset some people, it’s just Google protecting itself from being associated with potential criminal activity.
Quality Is Important Too
On a more general note, Google is also cracking down on low quality apps. Which means apps that copy content from others, apps primarily made to serve ads, and apps that don’t even function properly. Of which there are far too many on Google Play.
Luckily for you we spend our days sorting the good from the bad. So why not check out our comprehensive list of the best Android apps. It pinpoints the best apps across a wide range of genres, so there should be something there for everyone.
Read the full article: Google Bans Crypto-Miners From the Play Store
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