Google Play to Support More RMG Apps in 2021
In a significant policy shift, Google has announced that it will allow more real-money gaming (RMG) apps to be available in the Play Store starting this year. Previously, Google only permitted RMG apps that were regulated by local governments. The availability of regulatory frameworks determined whether an app was approved or rejected by the Play Store. However, with this new policy, Google Play will support RMG apps that are otherwise legal but not covered by licensing frameworks.
Expanded Policy Allows New Game Types and Operators
Under this expanded policy, Google Play will allow the inclusion of RMG game types and operators that were previously not covered by existing licensing frameworks. This will result in the availability of RMG apps in more countries, opening up opportunities for developers to create a wider range of real-money games. However, developers will still need to comply with all existing local guidelines, in addition to Google’s policies, to ensure a safe and secure gaming experience for users.
RMG Pilots in India and Mexico Can Stay in Play Store
As part of its preparations for this policy change, Google ran local pilot programs to determine the best way to support RMG apps that were not covered by existing regulations. For instance, in India and Mexico, Google launched pilot programs for Rummy and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) to gauge the feasibility of expanding the availability of these apps. With this new policy in place, the RMG apps in India and Mexico that were part of these pilots can remain in the Play Store.
Existing Safety Rules Remain in Place, Google to Strengthen Them
While Google is expanding the availability of RMG apps, it emphasizes that existing safety rules will remain in place. These rules include age-gating to ensure only adults have access to these apps and geo-gating to make them available only in countries where they are legal. Although the upcoming policy change will result in broader RMG support, Google is committed to further strengthening these safety measures to ensure responsible gaming practices.
Google Play to Introduce Service Fee Model for RMG Apps
As part of this expansion, Google also announced that it will be evolving its service fee model for RMG apps. Previously, these apps had to be free to install and were not allowed to use Google Play Billing. Consequently, Google did not charge a service fee. However, with the policy change, Google will introduce a service fee to reflect the value that Google Play provides and to sustain the Android and Play ecosystems. More details regarding this new fee structure will be revealed in the coming months.
With the broader support for RMG apps starting in June for India, Mexico, and Brazil, and plans to expand to more countries in the future, Google is paving the way for increased access to real-money gaming on Android devices. This policy change will not only benefit developers looking to create new types of real-money games but also provide users with a wider range of opportunities to engage in online gambling and betting activities.
Analyst comment
Positive news. The market for real-money gaming (RMG) apps is expected to grow with Google’s expanded policy allowing more types of games and operators. This will result in increased availability of RMG apps in more countries, presenting opportunities for developers. Google will also introduce a service fee to sustain the Android and Play ecosystems, which may impact developers. Overall, this policy change will benefit the RMG industry and provide users with a wider range of options for online gambling and betting.
