Google Tightens Play Store Rules: Mandatory Testing for Developer Apps

In a recent move to enhance security and quality, Google has introduced new regulations for developers. These stipulate that developers must complete account verification and ensure that their Apps undergo testing by at least 20 people before they can be officially listed on the Google Play Store.

As part of its commitment to ensuring user safety and maintaining high-quality standards, Google now requires developers to complete identity verification and mandates that their Apps undergo testing by at least 20 individuals before being listed on the Google Play Store. This rule will apply to Google Play individual developer accounts created after November 13, 2023. It necessitates that developers conduct a closed testing period spanning at least 14 days with a minimum of 20 participants, who must proactively request to join the testing.

Only after completing this testing phase can developers apply for approval to list their Apps on the Google Play Store through the Google Play Console. During the review process, Google will inquire about the App’s intended use, testing details, and the developer’s state of readiness.

Additionally, Google will require developers who applied after September 2023 to complete account verification. This process involves obtaining a D-U-N-S Global Number from Dun & Bradstreet, a business credit reporting agency. This verification will confirm the company’s official name, address, email, phone number, company size, and organizational category, as well as website, and bank account information.

For developer accounts that were registered prior, Google will also mandate the completion of this verification. Failure to do so will result in the removal of all associated Apps and developer account information from the Google Play Store, effective from April 1, 2024.