All articles tagged with #google play store
Google Play Store code in version 51.4.19 hints at a feature that would notify Android users when an installed app is removed or delisted, addressing the current gap where Play Protect only alerts for serious security issues; the idea comes from work-in-progress strings spotted in APK teardowns and may not yet be released publicly.
Security researchers from ESET uncovered 28 Android apps on Google Play that claimed to unlock access to call histories but merely charged users for fake data; together they amassed over 7.3 million downloads before removal, with payments made via Google Play Billing, UPI-based apps (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm), or direct card checkout. Some apps even spoofed an Indian government developer name. Refunds may be available for Google Play purchases, but third‑party payments aren’t refundable. The report also notes a separate Indonesian fraud campaign (GoldFactory) using phishing, malware, and social engineering to steal about $2 million.
Bloomberg, citing the Tech Transparency Project, says Apple and Google continue to host nudifying apps that can alter images to appear nude, with 18 such apps in the Apple App Store and 20 in Google Play, totaling hundreds of millions of downloads and about $122 million in revenue; Apple has removed some apps and blocked related search terms, while Google has suspended others; regulators worldwide are pushing for stronger action against nonconsensual sexual content online.
A Tech Transparency Project report finds that Apple and Google continue to host Nudify apps that can alter images to look nude, despite store policies; searches for terms like nudify or undress reveal such apps and ads for similar tools in both stores, with some removed but dozens remaining and reportedly 483 million downloads and about $122 million in revenue according to AppMagic estimates; enforcement is described as uneven and opaque, prompting calls for broader curbs on these apps worldwide.
Doki Doki Literature Club has been pulled from Google Play for allegedly violating the store’s Terms of Service with its depiction of sensitive themes. The developers say they’re pursuing a path to reinstate the Android version and are exploring alternate distribution options, while the game remains available on iOS, PC, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation.
The Android version of Doki Doki Literature Club was removed from Google Play for alleged policy violations related to depictions of sensitive themes; Serenity Forge says it’s fighting to restore the game and defends the portrayal of mental health, noting the title remains on iOS and other platforms and had strong reviews before removal.
Google is building a dedicated Now Playing app for Pixel phones, revealed by hidden Android System Intelligence code, which would host the feature as com.google.android.apps.pixel.nowplaying and could allow migrating song history to future devices; no official release date yet, though timing may align with the March Pixel Drop.
The Google Play Store is rolling out an update (v48.8) that will allow users to remotely uninstall apps from devices they don't have with them, making app management more convenient. The feature is expected to be available as early as November 10.
Google has proposed changes to Android and the Play Store, including supporting third-party app stores, reducing fees to 9% or 20% for new installs, lowering Play Billing fees to 5% for the first $1 million, and allowing users to install registered app stores from websites, aiming to address legal challenges and improve app store competition.
The article discusses the differences between F-Droid and Google’s app store, highlighting issues with app quality, data collection, and control over app updates, and advocates for a diverse ecosystem of app marketplaces and open-source solutions like F-Droid and GrapheneOS for better privacy and security.
The Google Play Store is rolling out a new 'auto-open' feature that allows users to automatically open newly installed apps with a notification and a 5-second countdown, providing convenience especially for apps needed immediately after download. The toggle is off by default and appears beneath the install progress bar, with the feature currently live on some devices like Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Google will require all Android app developers to register with a paid Developer Console account, extending verification beyond the Play Store to all sideloaded apps starting in 2026-2027, citing security concerns due to malware from unverified sources. This move aims to enhance security but has raised concerns among developers about increased restrictions and reduced flexibility, making Android more like iOS in terms of app installation.
Google will verify all Android app developers in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand starting September 2026 to enhance security and prevent malicious apps, with phased invitations beginning October 2025. This move aims to increase accountability, reduce impersonation, and protect users from malware, especially from third-party app stores, while maintaining user choice and preparing for potential Play Store reforms.
Google has released a dedicated app shortcut for its Password Manager on the Play Store, making it easier to access and manage passwords, passkeys, and more directly from the home screen, complementing the built-in password management features on Android and Chrome.
Google is developing a new gaming community forum within the Play Store that will allow users to share tips, ask questions, and discuss games, potentially integrating with Google Play Games on PC. The feature includes posting, commenting, reactions, and personal contribution profiles, aiming to create a centralized hub for gamers.