Google Says App Developers Will Have To Warn Users About In-App Ads

Next year, Google Play will require app developers to notify users if an app contains adverts.

Developers will have to tell users if the app has ads before they download it.

The new ruling will come into play on January 11th, 2016, and developers have until then to make the necessary changes.

App makers were informed of this in an email sent to Android developers, which you can read below.

It says that Android users will start to see an “Ads” label on apps that contain advertising.

It is thought the label will appear in a similar way to the “in-app purchases” tag and age rating.

Read the full email below:

Hello Google Play Developer,

At Google I/O, we launched “ad-supported” labels for apps in the Designed for Families program. Today, we’re announcing the expansion of this program to all apps on Google Play. Early next year, users will start to see the “Ads” label on apps that contain advertising, both inside and outside Designed for Families.

By January 11, 2016, you must sign in to the Play Developer Console and declare whether your apps contain ads (such as ads delivered through third party ad networks, display ads, native ads, and/or banner ads). After this date, the ads declaration will be required to make any updates to your apps. Please note that misrepresenting ad presence violates Google Play Developer Program Policies and may lead to suspension. You can visit our help center to learn more.

While developers are responsible for accurately declaring ad presence in their apps, Google may verify this at any time and display the “Ads” label if appropriate.

If you feel your app has been incorrectly flagged for containing ads, please contact our policy support team.

Regards,

The Google Play Team