Starting June 2024, Google is set to welcome real money gambling apps on the Play Store, providing users with a direct avenue to access these applications without resorting to unreliable third-party app stores.
Google is getting ready to make a user-friendly move by opening up the Play Store to real-money gambling apps like Rummy Circle and Dream11. The company recently shared in a blog post that it plans to introduce more real-money gambling apps, particularly those related to gaming and betting, which currently don’t fall under an existing licensing framework. This user-centric enhancement is slated to roll out in June of this year.
Google made this decision based on positive feedback received from popular Rummy and Daily Fantasy Sports apps during initial pilot tests in India and Mexico, even though the existing safety policies are still effective. In a user-friendly gesture, the tech giant has extended the grace period for pilot apps to remain on the Play Store until June 30, aligning with the introduction of the new policy.
Google has announced plans to expand the availability of real-money gambling apps to additional regions in the future. The company emphasizes a commitment to complying with each country’s gambling policies and will adopt a service fee model for both subscriptions and in-app purchases. However, specific details regarding the charges for each transaction are yet to be disclosed by the tech giant.
In India, gambling applications centered around skill, such as Rummy Circle and Dream11, are considered legal. However, the regulatory landscape varies across states. States like Sikkim, Kerala, and Nagaland have stringent regulations in place for gambling apps, ensuring proper oversight. On the other hand, states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and others have implemented bans on such applications.
Nonetheless, the opening of the Play Store to real-money gambling apps doesn’t imply an inundation of such applications. Google maintains a stringent policy, necessitating developers to undergo a rigorous application process. This process includes obtaining a valid license to conduct a gambling operation in the specific country or state where they intend to launch the app.