What kind of apps are banned on Google Play and App Store?

Google Play and the App Store, are the places where we can find all kinds of applications for Android and iOS: messaging, games, utilities, dictionaries, music, etc. Most users do not need other stores to find applications, although many times, due to the large number of banned apps and publication restrictions, it is better to bet on other stores. Why are there other types of applications outside of Google Play and the App Store? This is simply because there are very strict rules that both stores set for apps that want to be part of them. For example, in Mountain View, they set Red lines that developers cannot cross when publishing their applications. Something that is not new because it has already caused tensions between Google and developers.

What content is prohibited on Google Play and App Store?

Explicit content or pornography

This restriction has been present for years, but it never hurts to remember: Google joins Steve Jobs' side and does not want to see porn in its app store, a restriction that they comply with to the letter, and this forces those applications to be distributed in APK. This rule also applies to explicit content of any kind. Reason why, for example, apps from LiveLeak They cannot show explicit content, remaining only in those that do not have an age restriction.

Betting and illegal activities are also prohibited.

Google also doesn't have a high regard for anything having to do with gambling or illegal activities of any kind. For this reason, These types of apps are prohibited, except in France, Ireland and the United Kingdom. Betting and lotteries can be difficult to manage and tend to be one of the most regulated offerings on the App Store. Only include this functionality if you have fully reviewed your legal obligations in all locations where your app is available.

Be especially careful with intellectual property

Google's search engine follows the requests of the DMCA to the letter, therefore, trademark theft is also frowned upon by the company. So remember, do not use brands that do not belong to you, and be careful with the names of your application. The intellectual property policy of the Apple App Store is also very strict. Make sure your app only includes content that you have created or that you have a license to use. Otherwise, Your app will be removed from the App Store.

If your application handles data, be especially careful with security

If your app handles sensitive user data, both Google and App Store rules make this very clear: You must ensure the security of this dataApps must have a privacy policy detailing how user data is treated, as well as protecting data with modern cryptography.

Do not make payments within the application

In-app payments can be used to monetize a job, and Many developers abuse this system., but there are some lines that shouldn't be crossed. Payments can't be used for physical products or for content that can be consumed outside of that app.

Don't manipulate user reviews

Some developers have tried it: from not redirecting to the app store If the opinion is bad offering discounts and features “if you rate the app five stars.” This is strictly prohibited and will get your app removed.

Abusive advertising on Google Play

This is not new, but it is now clearer than ever: Google Play takes very seriously applications that follow abusive advertising techniques. Ads that pretend to be part of the system, redirect users to install new applications and promote unsolicited SMS messages are prohibited. Also, and as a curious detail, Google explicitly prohibits two techniques: display ads when the user clicks Home and display ads when the user leaves the app. Also to be aware of are ads that are inappropriate for an app's specific audience (adult-toned advertising in a kids' app, for example), and full-screen ads should show a simple exit.

Don't highlight reviews in the description

Many developers, as a sample of what the app does, copy some positive comments and They expose them in the application descriptions. Google prohibits this, as well as trying to place a keyword too many times, references to other apps, or even too much detail.

App stores are not a bed of roses for developers

With all this, it is clear to us that, although anyone can pay the registration fee, Not everything is easy for developers. Although it may not seem like it at first glance, these standards greatly limit what a developer can and cannot do with their application. Encrypting data correctly can be too complicated for some developers, ad networks can play a dirty trick on affiliate developers, or users can share inappropriate content – all of that can get you out of the game. Some rules are necessary, but that can be a pain, depending on the case. And the reason why many end up running away from app stores, releasing their APKs on other sites without restrictions.