Into 2012, Android’s sales have crossed 100 and increasing number of developers are working on designing apps for tablets and smartphones running on Android, some of them being used to express political views even. In this case, is it becoming important for Android to discipline its developers?
Unlike Apple, Android has a developer-friendly policy that allows developers to develop and launch new apps. As liberal as it may seem, it also results in the cropping up of malicious apps, detrimental for user. Similarly, Android users are also seen trying to download pirated versions of apps instead of having to pay for the authorized versions, casing major worries to the Google Play app store.
Therefore, new rules have been laid down for developers by Google, giving them 30 days to agree to the policy, and failing to do so will mean their app will be taken off. Apps can no longer bear identical names or icons. Existing apps will be reviewed and those who violate this rule will be taken off, in order to deal with unethical developers. Apps are no longer allowed to send ads in the guise of system notifications or to alter toolbars, create shortcuts or send out messages or emails without informing the user. Developers are to refrain from trying to boost the ratings of their apps by forcing users into rating an app multiple times. Putting up misleading information of an app in order to help it climb up the ladder in search results is a complete no-no. Creation of apps with the sole purpose of advertising or pumping the traffic to a website is barred. Apps that compromise on the security of the user’s device or download information from outside of Google Play, or give away data without the permission of the user will be checked in order to implement strict regulations concerning privacy. Google’s payment system will have to be used by apps processing payment transaction, specifically for in-app purchases only. Users are not to be misled, for instance, if the user is required to purchase a game in order to finish it, he should be informed about it in advance.
With Google coming up with new policies, it will only work towards reducing spam and making the marketplace mature and less malicious. Developers who wish to be a part of one such marketplace sure do need to take Google’s policies seriously!
