Google Play Tightens RMG Age Policies

Key Takeaways:

• Mandates enhanced age verification for real-money gaming apps to block minors.
• Introduces Play Policy Insights tool in Android Studio for compliance guidance.
• Aligns with global child safety standards, rated AO required for gambling apps.

Google Play has introduced stringent requirements under its new Age-Restricted Content and Functionality policy, targeting apps featuring real-money gaming such as online casinos and sports betting. Effective immediately following the October 30 announcement, developers must implement robust mechanisms to prevent underage access, including Adult Only (AO) or equivalent IARC ratings and geo-fencing to restrict availability outside licensed jurisdictions.

This update builds on existing gambling app guidelines, which already demand valid licenses, free downloads without Google Play Billing, and clear responsible gambling disclosures. Now, real-money gaming operators face heightened scrutiny: apps must demonstrably block minors via advanced age-gating—potentially incorporating device-level checks, behavioral analysis, or third-party verification services. Non-compliance risks rejection during review or post-launch suspension, with the platform emphasizing proactive enforcement through its expanded Play Policy Insights feature. This Android Studio integration provides real-time violation flagging, streamlining updates for developers worldwide.

The policy shift addresses escalating regulatory pressures across Europe, Asia, and beyond, where youth exposure to gambling poses addiction and financial risks. For operators, it signals a pivot toward fortified mobile security: expect accelerated adoption of biometrics, AI-driven fraud detection, and seamless KYC flows to maintain Play Store visibility. Early movers could gain competitive edges in user trust and retention, as compliant apps benefit from faster approvals and reduced churn from regulatory downtime.

Users stand to gain from a safer ecosystem, with minimized inadvertent access curtailing problematic play among teens. However, implementation challenges loom for smaller studios—balancing stringent gates with frictionless UX remains key, especially on 5G-enabled devices demanding instant sessions. Larger iGaming firms like Entain or Kindred, active in permitted markets, are poised to lead by retrofitting portfolios, potentially influencing App Store parallels.

Globally, this fortifies Google Play's position as a compliant distribution hub, pressuring rivals and spurring innovation in mobile-first defenses. Operators ignoring it risk market exclusion; those adapting could capture heightened investor confidence amid maturing 5G infrastructures.

Sources: Google Play Policy Updates Developer Program Policy