Google cracks down on apps advertising in Android notifications

Google has updated its developer policies in an effort to curb "deceitful" behavior, including the practices of unknowingly altering settings and advertising in the notification area.

Among a number of new rules added to the Google Play Developer Program Policies, developers are no longer allowed to simulate system notifications. That rule change could potentially ban apps that use third-party ad services like AirPush, which displays advertisements in the notification area and urges users to install anti-virus software or sign-up for promotional offers.

The new Ads Context rules state that an app cannot mimic notifications or adjust user settings without permission. Some apps install web shortcuts on the home screen or change the default browser home page when installed, but Google now requires that developers make these changes explicitly clear to the user and provide a way to easily reverse them.

Google also instituted new rules to combat apps that mislead users or are inappropriate. An email going out to all developers with apps in Google Play highlights the following changes:

"- We've added clearer details to the payment policy, and guidelines on how we will handle cancellations in our new subscription-billing feature
- We are restricting the use of names or icons confusingly similar to existing system apps in order to reduce user confusion
- We are providing more detail on the kinds of dangerous products that are not allowed on Google Play. For example, apps that disclose personal information without authorization are not allowed
- We are giving more examples of practices that violate the spam policy"

All newly published apps and updates will immediately be subject to the new Developer Program Policy. Existing apps must be updated within 30 days. Apps that do not comply with these new rules may face warning or removal from Google Play.