Google has recently updated its policy for Android app developers, giving users more control over their data. With the new policy, app users should be able to delete their account and the data that comes with it, even if the app itself is not currently installed.
Google Aims to Give App Users to Have More Control Over Their Accounts with the New Policy
Google has announced through its official blog that it is now requiring Android apps on the Play Store to have an option for the user to delete their account and the data that come with it, either through the app or by going to an online portal on the web. When the user decides to completely delete their account, the app developer should also delete the data within the account.
As per Gizmodo, it will be easier now for users to delete their account data on apps where they created an account. Users should have more control over their data and be allowed to erase their account information anytime they feel like it.
With the current policy, app users can still have their account data deleted, but this can only be done by requesting the developer to delete them. The new policy would require apps to have an accessible button to initiate the account and data deletion, saving the users from the trouble of making a request.
Google's new policy also aims to "better educate" the app users that they have control over their data, and that they are entitled to have their account information erased when they are done with the app. Also, this move should allow the Android apps and the Play Store to gain the trust of their users.
Furthermore, the new policy should give app users flexible options on how they want to handle their accounts. They can opt to delete only specific data from the app without entirely deleting their account. Also, users will be allowed to delete their account data on the web so that they won't have to reinstall the app anymore.
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At this point, Google is expecting the response of Android developers, whether it is possible on their end to include the account deletion option. However, the new policy should take effect sometime next year.
Specifically, developers have until December 7 to declare their commitment to the new policy for account deletion. After this, the app listings on the Play Store should reflect the changes by early 2024. Those developers who will need more time to apply the required changes can file for an extension until May 31, 2024, according to Engadget.
It can be recalled that Apple also applied a similar policy update for iOS apps. The reason behind this is the risk of data privacy violations. Without the option for users to easily delete their accounts, their sensitive information can be used by bad actors for fraudulent activities.
Aside from data privacy concerns, regulators in the US have been committed to giving consumers more control over the services they availed. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) introduced a new rule that should let users cancel their subscriptions and memberships in just one click.
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