Google allowing more gambling and betting games in Play Stores

In a new move, Google Play has announced an upcoming policy change that will allow gambling and betting Android apps in even more countries.Presently, real money gambling apps are only restricted to Brazilian, Irish, French, and UK Play Stores. The allowed apps include online casino games, lotteries, sports betting, and daily fantasy sports. But starting from March 1, developers can make gambling and betting apps available in 15 more countries, that include, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Romania, Spain, Sweden, and the United States.

“We’re updating our Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests policy so more developers around the world can build sustainable businesses, and in a way that helps keep consumers safe,” Google said in the announcement.Given the “sensitive nature” of gambling and betting, developers have to complete a Google Play application process and meet other requirements before their apps get listed.

App must also comply with all applicable local laws and industry standards for each country in which it is distributed. The developer must have a valid gambling license for each country or state/territory in which the app is distributed. The app has to be free to download and not use the Google Play In-app Billing system.

Google also had a tough time in India when it removed the Paytm app for a day for supporting in-app gambling and betting. This incident was just a few months back. However, now Google is easing Play Store rules for gamified loyalty programs. Proper gambling and betting apps are still not present in countries where betting and gambling are illegal.