Google Play Cracks Down on Lock Screen Ads

The Google Play Shop has started to ban apps from introducing pesky ads that can appear over your phone's lock screen.

Google's official app store now mentions the restriction in its developer policies on deceptive and disruptive ads. Android Police force spotted the modify on Thursday.

Google hasn't explained the reasoning backside the restriction, but it'll probably be welcomed by most.

Plenty of gratuitous apps, including file managers, photo editors, weather widgets, and security software, were using the monetization tactic to generate revenue.

Android Screenlock Ad 2

Consumers, even so, were left with cruddy ads that invaded their phones' lock screen. Users on Reddit take complained and called it a form of adware.

Final year, 1 popular Android app called ES File Explorer was accused of secretly bundling a bombardment booster with its software that began showing the lock screen ads. Following user complaints, the company backside ES File Explorer said it was a "difficult decision" to include the ads, just claimed they were necessary to keep the company operating.

The new restriction on lock screen ads probably won't sit well with app developers looking to monetize their free software. But it isn't a complete ban.

If the app's exclusive purpose is to work as a lock screen, ads are still permitted, according to the policy. These screen lock apps are already numerous, and although complimentary, many mention that they do incorporate ads. (The Google Play Store clearly labels if an app contains ads under the "Install" button.)

The restriction does not utilize to Android apps offered outside the Google Play Store.