The Google Play Store has slowly become more informative for users over the years, most recently adding labels to apps that have in-app purchases. Starting in early 2016, it appears that there will be more changes as Google is mandating that developers will need to declare whether their Android apps contain advertisements, and will show up as a similar label in the Play Store. An email has been circulating to developers this week to inform them that they have January 11th, 2016 to declare whether their app has ads in them – note that failing to do so violates the Google Play policies.
Here’s the email that’s going around:
Hello Google Play Developer,
At Google I/O, we launched “ad-supported†labels for apps in the Designed for Families program. Today, we’re announcing the expansion of this program to all apps on Google Play. Early next year, users will start to see the “Ads†label on apps that contain advertising, both inside and outside Designed for Families.
By January 11, 2016, you must sign in to the Play Developer Console and declare whether your apps contain ads (such as ads delivered through third party ad networks, display ads, native ads, and/or banner ads). After this date, the ads declaration will be required to make any updates to your apps. Please note that misrepresenting ad presence violates Google Play Developer Program Policies and may lead to suspension. You can visit our help center to learn more.
While developers are responsible for accurately declaring ad presence in their apps, Google may verify this at any time and display the “Ads†label if appropriate.
If you feel your app has been incorrectly flagged for containing ads, please contact our policy support team.
Regards,
The Google Play Team
What do you think about developers having to declare whether their Android apps contain advertisements? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Google Support, Droid-life
