app removal

AppWizard
May 2, 2025
The Google Play Store has seen a decline in available apps from 3.4 million to approximately 1.8 million since the beginning of 2024, representing a loss of nearly 47%. The "games" category lost 200,000 apps, the education sector lost around 160,700 apps, and the business category saw a reduction of 115,400 apps. This removal is part of Google's effort to combat ad fraud, particularly from "vapor apps" that misled users and generated recurring advertisements. Over 56 million downloads were affected across 180 apps. Google has implemented new policies for tracking and removing spammy applications, including expanded verification requirements, mandatory app testing, and enhanced human reviews.
AppWizard
April 30, 2025
Google's Play Store has undergone a significant overhaul, resulting in a reduction of apps from approximately 3.4 million to around 1.8 million, a decline of nearly 47% since the beginning of 2024. This change was prompted by an increase in threats to mobile devices and stricter criteria for app inclusion and retention. Google is targeting the removal of static apps without specific functionalities, apps with minimal content, and applications that lack functional value. Removed apps will no longer be available for download, but users with the app already installed can continue to use it without updates. If uninstalled, users cannot redownload the app unless republished by the developer. Users are advised to manage their app collections to mitigate risks associated with low-quality apps. Subscriptions linked to removed apps will also be terminated.
AppWizard
October 7, 2024
Kaspersky's official Android app was removed from the Google Play Store, and its developer accounts were disabled, following sanctions imposed by the US government. Kaspersky is investigating the unavailability of its software and has provided alternative download options through other app stores and its official website. The US government has raised concerns about Kaspersky's software potentially being exploited by the Russian government, leading to a ban on the sale of its products effective July 20, 2024. Kaspersky was placed on the US Entity List, and updates to its software were halted as of September 29. The company is offering free security products and safety tips for six months to mitigate customer impact. In September 2024, US customers reported that their antivirus software was replaced with a new solution named UltraAV.
AppWizard
July 28, 2024
Google plans to remove low-quality applications from the Google Play Store by August 31, 2024, as part of its updated spam and minimum functionality policy. Apps must demonstrate adequate utility and engaging content; those that crash frequently, lack essential features, or offer minimal content will be removed. This includes static apps with only text or PDF files, applications with very limited content, and apps without a clear purpose. Google will also remove apps with broken functionality that crash or operate abnormally. The changes will not affect apps already downloaded by users. The Google Play Store currently has approximately 3.3 million applications.
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