Google has finally announced that it’s now allowing real money gambling apps into its Google Play store. This is a huge change for gaming operators, so let’s take a look at what is on the cards for them.

Since its early days, Google has been against publishing gambling apps on its store, including sports betting, casino and slots, as it couldn’t ensure age restriction on its apps. The only way operators could distribute them was via their own or third-party channels. However, this has been more challenging compared to hosting apps on the Apple App Store. Not only is it harder for Android users to find relevant gaming apps, it is also costly for operators to promote and maintain them. For example, we’ve had to create a library that automatically checks if a new version is available, downloads it and starts the install process for the user to run through. As a result, operators and affiliates have underinvested in Android apps, focusing more on the iOS products, offering apps of a lesser quality for a large number of their customers.

Google has finally announced that it’s now allowing real money gambling apps into its Google Play store. This is a huge change for gaming operators, so let’s take a look at what is on the cards for them.

Since its early days, Google has been against publishing gambling apps on its store, including sports betting, casino and slots, as it couldn’t ensure age restriction on its apps.

The only way operators could distribute them was via their own or third-party channels. However, this has been more challenging compared to hosting apps on the Apple App Store. Not only is it harder for Android users to find relevant gaming apps, it is also costly for operators to promote and maintain them. For example, we’ve had to create a library that automatically checks if a new version is available, downloads it and starts the install process for the user to run through. As a result, operators and affiliates have underinvested in Android apps, focusing more on the iOS products, offering apps of a lesser quality for a large number of their customers.

Now, that Google is opening its store to gambling apps, it creates numerous opportunities for the operators and a huge growth in Android products. From the “beginning of August 2017, Google will accept applications for the distribution of gambling apps within the Play store in the United Kingdom, France and the Republic of Ireland. At a later date, this policy change may be expanded to new regions and countries.“

Upon submission, developers will be required to provide documentation for the apps, including licences for the countries they’re looking to target. This process will likely be similar to Apple’s, taking slightly longer to approve to make sure everything is done correctly and legally.

Android holds nearly 50% market share across mobile devices in the UK. This is a huge opportunity for gaming operators to grow their Android app portfolio and user base. It is also a good time to review the UX and functionality of the existing gaming apps to ensure punters can benefit from the latest features and services. It’s worth keeping in mind that Android apps need to follow their own specific design and development guidelines, as well as being slightly different to iOS.

We can help you create or update your Android gambling app and get it ready for distribution with the necessary paperwork and licensing. Get in touch if you need any help with this! Visit www.degree53gaming.com