On August 31, 2024, Google Play issued an array of new guidelines for app approval, a second move of adjustment within this year. As Google shouts out loud its determination of regulating the app market, is there really nothing developers can do rather than watch opportunities being taken away? Before we dive deep into the discussion, let’s take a glance at what the new guidelines are about.
In April 2024, Google Play tightened up its review process and rolled out more stringent policies to protect user privacy and network security. Developers need to invest more time and resources to provide the required materials for compliance. New protection measures include restricting apps from obtaining risky or sensitive permissions and enhancing fraudulent content check.
At the end of August 2024, developers from multiple fields are requested a bunch of additional materials for account registration on Google Play. Meanwhile, the platform started to remove apps that are crashed, frozen, or faulty, as well as crack down on the usage of third-party code through restriction and periodical check.
This trend is only going to grow on Google Play, making it even harder for apps to get onboard. Unlike enterprises that come with an R&D team, individual developers are in a worse situation. Many of their apps are on the verge of being rejected or suspended by the marketplace.
With that being said, is there an alternative approach to get around the platform censorship?
Aside from visiting the app store, users can also download an app through APK. However, downloading an APK will trigger security warning popups, which could be annoying and drive users away. Sometimes users may churn due to the concern of security risks instead of real risks. This leads to a low conversion rate for APK download.
Another approach to distribute apps globally is also rising and not to be ignored, which is the progressive web app (PWA).
A PWA is a web app built of the advanced network technology and can provide the same flawless experience as a native app but loads faster with a more sleek interface.
Why is PWA a more favorable option? This is because PWA can load fast, work offline, adapt to all browsers, and be added to the home screen like native apps. This not only offers a fast and seamless user experience but also cuts down the development and maintenance costs.
ROIBest is a leading PWA service provider headquartered in Singapore. The company combines the innovative technology with enhanced user experience and offers a pioneering PWA solution to ensure that apps are never taken down by the app store. This solution has effectively resolved the approval and app store commission issues that trouble many developers.
The results show that ROIBest’s PWA solution can deliver the same install conversion rate up to 95% as Google Play. Not only that, the solution is compatible with all Android devices around the world and any version of Chrome. It can also work in offline mode, ensuring smooth install and usage under compromised network conditions.
Since Google Play keeps narrowing the living space for individual developers, PWA as an emerging development approach to bypass the app store review while elevating user experience is definitely worth trying. It is undeniably the next big thing to focus on, especially for app distribution and business growth in global markets.
About Us
ROIBest is a software service company headquartered in Singapore, pioneering in Android progressive web app (PWA) solutions. We provide Android developers with an innovative app distribution & advertising solution that does not depend on app stores, saves in-app purchase commissions, and eliminates harmful file warnings. Our feature-rich product supports AudienceCloud, traffic deduplication, and intelligent push notifications, enabling business success in global markets.
