Google to Purge Low-Quality Apps from Play Store in Major Security Revamp

Google is set to enhance Android security with a particular focus on app safety. Despite existing security measures like Google Play Protect, the problem of dangerous apps on the Play Store persists. To address this, Google recently announced a cleanup of the Play Store within six weeks.

In a significant move to improve app safety and user experience, the internet giant is updating its Spam and Minimum Functionality policy, targeting apps that fail to meet higher standards for functionality and user engagement.

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"We’re updating the Spam and Minimum Functionality policy to ensure apps meet uplifted standards for the Play catalogue and engage users through quality functionality and content user experiences," Google stated.

This policy change targets apps that are static or have only one basic feature, like displaying a single image or wallpaper. Millions of such apps exist on the Play Store, and many users likely have some on their phones.

The upcoming purge is also expected to impact popular apps with millions of installs.

Previously, Google required apps to provide a "stable, engaging, and responsive user experience." However, it is now addressing longstanding security concerns where Android has historically lagged behind Apple’s iPhone.

Considering that not all apps on the Play Store or App Store are free of malware, there are apps on the Google Play Store that target users' bank account details. Google is also working to remove third-party code from known malware sources.

Developers have six weeks to comply with these new security regulations.