Prepare for an influx of gambling apps on the Google Play store as Google unveils plans to expand support for real-money gaming (RMG) apps.

Starting in June 2024 in countries like India, Mexico, and Brazil, Google aims to include a broader range of games and apps from operators not covered by existing licensing frameworks.

This move follows Google's 2021 initiative, allowing RMG apps in 15 new countries and recent test pilots in India and Mexico. While providing new business opportunities for developers globally, Google emphasizes a commitment to user safety, ensuring compliance with local guidelines and Google policies for interested developers.

Real-Money Gaming Apps Gain More Support from Google

Google aims to increase support for real-money gaming (RMG) apps on the Play Store, as announced on the Android Developers Blog. Following successful pilot programs in India, Mexico, and Brazil, Google plans to expand RMG app offerings starting June 2024. Positive feedback and results from pilot programs, such as allowing Daily Fantasy Sports and Rummy apps, have influenced this decision.

In Mexico, developers will be permitted to distribute various RMG apps beyond Daily Fantasy Sports, adhering to local laws and Google's updated policies. In India, RMG pilot apps will remain until June 30, aligning with the implementation of Google's new policies.

Google emphasizes user safety through age-gating, ensuring users are of legal age, and geo-gating to restrict app availability to authorized regions.

The expanded RMG support aims to provide developers with new business opportunities globally. Google plans to collaborate closely with developers to align the approach with the industry's unique economics and earning models. The cautious expansion into RMG recognizes the potential impact on users with gambling problems, emphasizing responsible implementation for sustained success.

The eligible game types include online casino games, sports betting, horse racing, lotteries, and daily fantasy sports. App developers, particularly those overseas, have long urged Google to permit a broader range of RMG games, including online versions of local card games without established regulations.

While specific details are yet to be disclosed, Google promises collaboration with developers to align with the industry's unique economics and earning models.

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Google Play Store's Expanded App Inclusion: Legal Compliance and Evolving Service Fee Model

It's crucial to highlight that while Google will permit a broader range of apps into the Play Store, they must still adhere to legal requirements. Starting in June 2024, these apps won't necessarily require established regulatory frameworks, allowing for increased diversity beyond traditional casino, betting, and lottery apps.

Google emphasizes the importance of age-gating to prevent underage engagement, and geolocation checks will ensure compliance with local laws.

Furthermore, the tech giant hints at a potential shift in its service fee model for real-money gaming (RMG) apps, aiming to align it with the value provided by Google Play and support the Android and Play ecosystems. Google asserts its commitment to collaboratively working with developers to create an approach that accommodates the unique economics and diverse earning models within the RMG industry.

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