GOOGLE is cracking down on its second-rate apps, which means Android users will soon be awash with only the best platforms.
The tech giant is changing its Play Store rules to force developers to test their apps on at least 20 people for two weeks before its release.
It’s intended to ensure that apps actually do what they say on the tin – and cannot mislead Android users into downloading them.
Apps that intentionally mislead users are usually scam apps in one way or another.
The review process is now shifting towards a human-centric method, where real-life people ensure the apps meet Google’s policies.
Prior to the change, Google relied on automated checks to ensure apps met their policies.
For developers, testing an app used to be optional – but now it’s mandatory.
The new rules are expected to overhaul the Play Store, which sees roughly 78,000 new apps added onto it every month.
Many of them ranging from great platforms to game rip-offs, copycat tools, data gobblers and malware trojans.
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Google reckons the move will help them catch more bugs, too.
Next year, Google Play will add more labels to app listings, making it easier for users to find the platforms they’re looking for.
For example, a new badge will apply specifically to official government apps, in a bid to stamp out any dodgy copycats.
Google will also highlight local and regional apps to folks in those communities and areas.
