July 18, 2023

Google has updated its Play Store policies in an effort to improve trust and safety for users. The new policies require developers to provide more identification, disclose information about tokenized digital assets, and respect the wishes of developers who decline to participate in On-device Android Containers.

Starting August 31, developers registering a new organization will have to supply a D-U-N-S number, a nine-digit identifier assigned by data brokers Dun & Bradstreet. This information will be used to inform the new “About the developer” section in Google Play, which will show verified identity information like name, address, and contact details.

Google made changes for developers using blockchain-based apps on their Play Console. Developers now have to provide information about the purpose, earning methods, and usage of tokenized assets. Google also updated its policy to respect developers’ choices regarding On-device Android Containers. Developers can indicate their refusal by adding a property in their app’s manifest file.

For apps targeting Android 14 and above, Google has introduced disclosing details about digital assets, following foreground service guidelines, implementing the JobScheduler API, modifying VPN permissions, changing the Exact Alarm API permissions, expanding the Deceptive Behavior policy for clearer app functions, and allowing users to delete their app and web accounts.

The sources for this piece include an article in TheRegister.