Google Play Store could soon roll out new restrictions for its applications, especially to those apps that kids usually access. The availability of them varies from one region to another.
This move might affect the developers who created the apps. If there's a time that a certain application is flagged as "inappropriate," the creator will be forced to remove it from the app store in a select location.
Restrictions in Kid's Apps in Play Store
Following the Developer Program Policy update this month, Google unveiled that the apps made for children should not only be accessible to them.
The search engine giant wrote that the apps should be appropriate for the kid's use, as well, Android Police reported on Thursday, Apr. 7.
For instance, if the app that is approved for children's use is seen to be "appropriate" for a specific region, it does not mean that it will be automatically removed in other locations.
Furthermore, the restrictions can be effective in just one country, but the app could remain usable and safe for kids' use in another region.
The announcement did not clarify the indicators if an application is inappropriate for the kids.
However, we assume that Google will prepare unique sets of policies per region. These will help determine their availability in different places. Still, this is a challenging task that the tech titan will do if it wants to restrict the use of unsafe apps in a country.
So far, we know that each region has varying restrictions when it comes to age. For instance, the UK has no firm rules when it comes to downloading the Telegram app from the app store. However, it still has a parental guidance disclaimer.
Speaking of Telegram, Germany restricts the use of this messaging platform on the Google Play Store to people aged 18 years old and above.
30-Day Grace Period For Developers
As of the moment, the developers will be given a 30-day grace period for the new policies. They will need to follow them by May 11, 2022.
If they fail to abide by the rules, the developers face a huge risk of having their apps removed from the app store.
Protecting Kids Online
Since digital apps can be a double-edged sword, it's important to be knowledgeable in educating the kids on what's safe from not in the online world.
According to Forbes, the tech leaders could educate the people in protecting the kids against the potential phishing and spamming.
In addition, they also should create a product that is specifically designed for kids alone. They should be made accessible and convenient for the young audience.
If you're a parent with a kid who regularly uses an app, you should let security software do the privacy and security solutions. With that, you need to use effective tools such as password manager, VPN, and other software that will foster online safety for your children.
This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Joseph Henry
