Google has announced it is cracking down on apps that seek to push advertisements to Android users through the device’s lockscreen.
In a new section on its developer monetization page, Google has added a new section, outlawing the shady practice of shoehorning ads onto the lock screen.
Google wrote: “Unless the exclusive purpose of the app is that of a lockscreen, apps may not introduce ads or features that monetize the locked display of a device.”
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Essentially Google is saying an app can’t masquerade as a game or a photo editor, only to then start pushing ads onto locked phones.
If your entire app is a lock screen, you’re still going to be allowed to serve ads. Ads that don’t comply will be kicked out of the Play Store with a quickness, according to Google.
The trend has gathered pace in recent times, driving Android device owners to adopt ad blockers as an essential app. So, it’s good to see Google step in and combat the practice.
As Android Authority pointed out in its report today, the app ES File Explorer was forced to pull ads last year over user backlash over lock screen intrusion.
What do you make off Google’s efforts to keep our lockscreen clean? Where would you draw the line with intrusive ads? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
