Google Play Store to Lift Ban on Gambling Apps

The online casino industry has grown and spread across various devices to increase convenience.

With the mobile gambling industry taking off only a few years ago there have been several kinks to sort out.

One is the struggle of having access to proper gambling apps due to regulatory restrictions and device fine print.

Mobile players can start rejoicing as Google’s Play Store has lifted the ban on Gambling Apps in over a dozen countries recently.

Google Lifts the Gambling App Ban

Mobile gambling is not a new way of playing online casino games, but gambling apps have been banned in the majority of countries. Some apps have been made available but for players, this generally meant a more tedious download process.

With Google’s recent Google Play Store policy update the ban on gambling apps has been lifted across 15 countries. Meaning more countries will now enable you to download your favourite online casino’s mobile app straight from the Google Play Store.

Based on the new policy update the Gambling App ban will be lifted in 15 countries from 1 March 2021. The list of countries includes Germany, Mexico, Romania, Finland, New Zealand, Norway, Australia, Colombia Canada, Denmark, Sweden, Spain, and the USA.

Once the policy comes into effect developers will have the ability to publish online casino games, lotteries, sports betting, and daily fantasy sports apps. The updated Real-Money Gambling, Games, and Contests policy is thought to be one of benefit for both users and developers.

It should be noted that even with the ban lifted the current gambling regulations in the country will still affect which apps are allowed on the Google Play Store. With some countries having stricter rules and regulatory restrictions in place than others when it comes to online gambling activities.

In some country’s operators will only be allowed to offer lottery apps, whereas in the UK the restrictions vary depending on the different states. Thus, app developers will have to do a thorough investigation before releasing any apps.

Operators Required to Apply

Players should not expect there to be a massive influx in new apps available for download once the ban is lifted. As always Google will have a strict application process in place which all developers are required to follow. If the application is successful, the app will be loaded onto the Play Store.

During the application process, developers will need to ensure apps are licensed under current gambling regulations of the country where it will be sold. As this also ensures Google stays on the right side of the law and keeps illegal apps from being promoted on Google Play Store.

With apps readily available for download via the Google Play Store operators will have the opportunity to reach a wider audience and expand their target market. It also increases the number of opportunities available for affiliates of the casino brands.

The ban on Google Play Store gambling apps will only be lifted on the 1st of March so until then no new additions should be expected.