Google is to tighten control over the implementation of payment rules for purchases in Android applications. Next week, updated guidelines will be released to clarify the company’s requirements for using its payment system for subscriptions and in-app purchases.
It is not surprising that Google has decided to tighten the requirements because purchases made through the company’s payment system are subject to a 30% commission. It’s worth noting that the requirements to use Google’s payment system have been around for many years, but big developers like Netflix, Spotify, or Epic Games get around this rule.
The Netflix and Spotify apps allow you to use credit cards to pay for purchases, and Epic Games added its own payment system to Fortnite, after which it was removed from the Play Store and the Apple App Store.
After updating the rules, Google will give developers some time to bring their applications in line with the new requirements. This means that apps that violate Google’s policies will not be removed immediately, but this may happen later if the developers still do not make changes to their products.
“ As an open platform, Android allows multiple app stores. In fact, most Android devices come with at least two stores out of the box, and users can install others as well. For developers who decide to distribute their applications on the Play Store, our policy has always required the use of the Play payment system if the applications provide the ability to purchase digital goods.
We are always working with our partners to clarify these policies and ensure they are applied fairly and reasonably, ”said a Google spokesperson.
Google needs to enhance its overall revenue stream, by treating all developers equally , as Apple do, and also have to increase the quality and the level of developer’s support that they provide to their potential users.
