This move from Google comes in after the Panic button which was speculated to be a kill switch for spam applications. With Android 8.0 Oreo, Google is taking serious measures to improve user experience on Android and these policies are a part of it. Here in this article, we will tell you which ads are discouraged by Google.
Lockscreen Monetization
Google Policies now strictly prohibit non-lock screen apps from displaying lock screen advertisements. Only dedicated apps for customized lock screen can show you advertisements on your lock screen. All apps, apart from exclusive lock screen apps are to show advertisements limited to within the app itself.
Advertisements interfering with device functionality and other apps
Google now counts interfering apps as a violation of their policies. If an app displays advertisements outside its UI, i.e. on the home screen or in other apps, it is not in sync with the Google’s guidelines. Also, if an advertisement is triggered by your phone’s home button or any other device-related command, it will also be treated as a violation.
Deceptive and Disruptive advertisements
Deceptive ads are the advertisements that pop-up using unfair means. For example, if you’re using an app and a click on a UI button opens an ad, it will be treated as a violation of Google policies. The advertisements that take up the entire screen space and do not come with a ‘dismiss’ or ‘close (X)’ button will be counted as disruptive ads and treated as a violation.
Inappropriate Advertisements and Ad-personalization
Google has always discouraged inappropriate advertisements and now the advertising policies clearly define sexually explicit advertisements as inappropriate. Also, you can save your personal information by opting out of personalized advertising.
Report inappropriate advertisements to Google
If you find any inappropriate advertisements from an app you’ve installed from Play Store, you can report the app as ‘Inappropriate’. To do so, you have to go to the Play Store, search the app and get to the bottom of the page. There you will find the ‘Flag as Inappropriate’ button where you can report an app violating these terms.
