Google Play Store, in a groundbreaking move, is poised to usher in significant changes by expanding the availability of real-money gaming (RMG) apps beyond the confines of existing government regulations (via Engadget).
The impending change promises a seismic shift in the app marketplace, with a wide range of game types and operators gaining access to the platform, signaling a departure from the previous, more restrictive policies.
Google to Welcome More Real-Money Gaming Apps
This seismic shift follows Google's initial foray into allowing RMG apps in 2021, a move contingent on compliance with government-regulated game types.
The tech giant is now redefining its rules to include a broader range of games, including those not popular enough to warrant regulatory frameworks.
Google aims to broaden the range of real-money gaming experiences available on the Play Store while acknowledging the constraints imposed by existing government regulations.
In response to rising demand, Google has conducted extensive pilot programs worldwide since 2021 to learn how to support a broader range of RMG operators and game types.
Notably, India served as a pilot program testing ground, with apps offering Rummy card games and Daily Fantasy Sports. The company has set June 30, 2024, as the implementation date for the new policy in India, Mexico, and Brazil, allowing pilot program operators to release their applications in accordance with local laws (via 9to5Google).
Safety Measures
Notably, Google remains committed to upholding safety measures, such as age restrictions for accessing RMG apps. Developers must use geo-fencing to ensure that their apps are only available in areas where they comply with local regulations. These safety policies, which include age-gating and geo-gating, will be strengthened further to protect users.
Engadget tells us that developers working in the RMG space, particularly those involved in pilot programs, can exhale a sigh of relief. The grace period for existing pilot apps in India is extended until June 30, 2024, giving developers plenty of time to update their products to comply with the new policy.
This policy update goes beyond geographical considerations, emphasizing the importance of developers adhering to both local and Google Play guidelines. This ensures that the availability of RMG apps is not only broad but also by regulatory standards, striking a balance between innovation and responsibility.
What's Next?
Furthermore, Google Play intends to evolve its service fee model for RMG to reflect its value while also aiming to sustain the Android and Play ecosystems.
RMG apps were previously barred from using Google Play Billing, but with the upcoming policy changes, Google is poised to take a cut of developers' earnings, further cementing its position in the RMG landscape.
As the expanded RMG support prepares to launch in June, initially in India, Mexico, and Brazil, Google plans to expand its availability to users in additional countries in the future.
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