Google Play Store bans cryptocurrency mining, ‘repetitive’ apps

It’s taken a while, but Google has finally updated its dated Play Store developers’ policy, governing what app makers can upload and sell on the repository.

Firstly, cryptocurrency miners are no longer allowed on the Store, mirroring its policy on the Chrome Web Store.

“We don’t allow apps that mine cryptocurrency on devices. We permit apps that remotely manage the mining of cryptocurrency,” the company writes.

Additionally, Google’s also looking out for kids on the Play Store.

“Apps that include content that sexualizes minors are subject to immediate removal from the Store. Apps that appeal to children but contain adult themes are not allowed,” it writes,

“If we become aware of content with child sexual abuse imagery, we will report it to the appropriate authorities and delete the Google Accounts of those involved with the distribution.”

Apps that allow or facilitate “the sale of explosives, firearms, ammunition, or certain firearms accessories” are now banned too.

And finally, Google’s also cracking down on “repetitive” apps.

These focus on “multiple apps with highly similar content and user experience,” Google notes.

“If these apps are each small in content volume, developers should consider creating a single app that aggregates all the content.”

Feature image: Andy Walker/Memeburn