Google Play's Updated Developer Policy Bans Apps Used For Selling Guns And Firearms Accessories

With hundreds of thousands of applications on the Google Play Store, the tech giant decided to implement a few new rules for app developers. 

One prominent change, according to the  Developer Policy Center includes banning apps that are designed to mine cryptocurrency:

Cryptocurrencies

We don't allow apps that mine cryptocurrency on devices. We permit apps that remotely manage the mining of cryptocurrency.

The other prominent change bans apps that promote the sale, manufacturing, or modification of firearms, explosives, and ammunition:

Dangerous Products

We don't allow apps that facilitate the sale of explosives, firearms, ammunition, or certain firearms accessories.

• Restricted accessories include those that enable a firearm to simulate automatic fire or convert a firearm to automatic fire (e.g. bump stocks, gatling triggers, drop-in auto sears, conversion kits), and magazines or belts carrying more than 30 rounds.

We don't allow apps that provide instructions for the manufacture of explosives, firearms, ammunition, restricted firearm accessories, or other weapons. This includes instructions on how to convert a firearm to automatic, or simulated automatic, firing capabilities.

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This change means that small businesses, like mom and pop gun stores, can't use the Google Play Store or Android devices to make any kind of sales. More and more companies are encouraging customers to download cell phone apps to stay in contact and shop with their favorite stores. 

It will also be interesting to see what happens to big box store retailers, like Cabela's, Bass Pro and Brownell's, and how their marketing efforts will change.