Tag: Play Store

  • Google to Launch Global Play Store Age Verification by 2026 via New API

    Google to Launch Global Play Store Age Verification by 2026 via New API

    Google will expand its Play Store age-verification system worldwide by the end of 2026. The company announced the update on July 29 as governments push for improved child safety measures in app stores. The new Play Age Signal API will help app developers verify a user’s age range without accessing personal details.

    The feature will be introduced in India, the United States, Australia, Canada, and other countries. Google will integrate the system with Family Link, allowing parents to select an age range for their children. Apps will receive only the chosen age group instead of the exact date of birth.

    Explaining the new system, Google stated: “The Play Age Signals API is a runtime interface with the Google Play Store.” The company added that the tool shares only the information needed for age-appropriate experiences and safeguards personal identity details.

    Google says the system ensures privacy while helping developers offer age-suitable apps and content. Parents can set age groups such as 13–15 or 16–17, and the range updates automatically as children grow older.

    Some countries may still require users to complete additional age checks. Depending on local regulations, users may need to verify their age with a government ID, credit card, selfie, or another approved method before downloading restricted apps. Google also advised users to complete verification only through the Play Store or Google Account settings to avoid online scams.

    The new tool is optional for developers, so not every app will use it. Privacy experts note that some children may still bypass restrictions by creating another account with a different age. However, the global rollout reflects Google’s effort to improve child safety while maintaining app privacy as online rules continue to evolve.

  • Google Opens Android to Rival App Stores Starting July 22 in Landmark Policy Change

    Google Opens Android to Rival App Stores Starting July 22 in Landmark Policy Change

    Google is set to allow third-party app stores on Android in the United States beginning July 22, marking one of the most significant changes to the Play Store since its launch. The move follows the company’s decision to abandon its proposed settlement with Epic Games and comply with a federal court injunction, aiming to increase competition in Android app distribution.

    Google Play Store Opens to Competitors

    The change introduces Google’s new Play Catalog Access Program, which allows eligible third-party app stores to access the Play Store’s app catalog. Developers’ apps and games will automatically appear on participating third-party marketplaces unless they choose to opt out.

    This development stems from the ongoing court case between Google and Epic Games. In 2024, a U.S. federal court found that Google had unlawfully maintained monopoly power in Android app distribution and billing services. The ruling required Google to open its platform to competing app stores and distribution systems.

    Google had initially negotiated a settlement with Epic Games that would have allowed smaller registered app store systems instead of permitting competing app stores within the Google Play Store. However, both parties abandoned the proposed settlement after concluding that court approval was unlikely.

    What Changes for Developers and Users

    Under the new program, eligible app store providers can join Google’s Play Catalog Access Program. Google will audit participating stores’ adherence to policies and security standards, levying an annual fee of $5,000 to conduct these audits.

    For developers, the transition will be largely automated. Their listings on the Play Store will automatically be made accessible to third-party stores unless they opt out.

    The changes currently apply only to the United States, where the court injunction is in force. Google will continue using its existing Play Store model in other markets unless local regulations require similar reforms.