Google is putting the clamp on low-effort apps in the Play Store. Apps that don't offer basic functionality or quality may be removed.

Google is putting the clamp on low-effort apps in the Play Store. Apps that don’t offer basic functionality or quality may be removed.

  • ocassionallyaduck@lemmy.world
    302·
    5 months ago

    If this was 10 years ago I’d be happy.

    Now I just know Google is going to delist a ton of useful apps and call them low interest or something.

    • Chozo@fedia.io
      141·
      5 months ago

      Google explains that text-only apps, single wallpaper apps, apps that don’t install or load after installation, and unresponsive apps are most at risk of being in violation of the company’s new policy. This update is expected to go into effect on August 31, 2024.

      Doesn’t seem that apps with an actual use are being placed in the crosshairs at all, nor is interest being factored.

      • Verqix@lemmy.world
        21·
        5 months ago

        Did you miss the “most” keyword? Also, what is their definition of a “text-only” app? What devices are they using for the “don’t install or load” check? When is something called “unresponsive”?

        There are so many ways to trigger false positives on any check google introduces. Their way of handling developers who don’t understand why they have their app pulled is by giving a blanket “violates the rules” remark.

        I imagine SD card reliant apps, apps where a server is down, apps with specific time based information in text on start, apps calculating a lot of data etc. all potential victims.

      • Verqix@lemmy.world
        1·
        5 months ago

        Also, in regards to the interest not being factored, if they implement a check the limits for what is being checked could be interest (number of installs or active uses) based. An app doesn’t show anything after 1 second? If there are 500.000 users it’s probably fine, but if there are 10? It’s way less likely to be a false positive, and way less impactful if it is a false positive.

  • MrJameGumb@lemmy.world
    91·
    5 months ago

    I noticed there is no mention of removing games that are basically 5 minutes of actual gameplay for every 30 minutes of ads… I’ve noticed a lot of them don’t even give the option to pay to remove ads anymore and they’re just mandatory now…

      • MrJameGumb@lemmy.world
        2·
        5 months ago

        I can’t stand the ones that say they have a “free trial” but you can’t even try the free version without providing a payment method… It’s basically like the developer telling you that their app isn’t any good and they’re counting on you forgetting you signed up for it lol

        • KillerTofu@lemmy.world
          3·
          5 months ago

          Right? Apple does that shit too. No need to pay but we want your credit card and you can’t cancel until the day your subscription expires.

          • MrJameGumb@lemmy.world
            1·
            5 months ago

            It’s like the whole business model is based on hoping kids download these apps and just agree to everything without telling their parents lol I can’t think of anyone else who would agree to pay $15.99 a week for an app that shows you what you’ll look like when you’re 80 lol