Description
Google is introducing a new app developer policy to provide more transparency and control over the data users share with apps. Developers must provide users with the ability to delete their accounts and data both online and in the app in accordance with this policy. Currently, the data security section of the PlayStore only allows developers to state that you can request data deletion. However, the new policy requires apps that allow account creation (from within the app) to provide access to the account deletion request. Under the new policy, the delete option must be easily accessible both within the app and outside of the app, such as on the web, so that the user can request account and data deletion without needing to reinstall the app. When a user requests to delete an account from an app, the app must also delete all data associated with that account, according to the new policy. Users who do not wish to delete their entire account can choose to delete only specific data, such as activity history, photos, and videos, if applicable.
Google also asked developers to include web links to resources where users can request data and account deletion.
Google will implement the new account data policies starting in early 2024. Developers have until December 7 to respond to new questions about data deletion in their app's data protection form. Developers can request extensions through the Pay Console.
However, non-compliant apps may be removed from Google Play after May 31, 2024. Thereafter, in early 2024, the new guidelines will be available on the app's Google Play Store listing. This includes a new data deletion area in the Data Security section, as well as an updated data deletion badge.
