Google Play Store cracks down on outdated apps

Image: Google

The Play Store will soon be limited to outdated apps, according to the company. From November 1st, all existing apps in the store should aim to reach an API level within two years of the latest major Android OS release. If they don't they will be placed under limits on which users can discover or install them.

The changes are meant to make sure that the software in the Play Store uses the latest privacy and security features. The full potential of all the privacy and security protections is what the device owners expect.

Image: Google

There are a couple of things to note. The restrictions will only apply when the device is running a newer version of the app. Anyone who is still using an older version of the OS will be able to download apps made with that version in mind. Users will be able to re-download and install any apps they have previously downloaded from the Play Store.

If the software isn't ready in time for the November 1st deadline, developers can apply for a six-month extension.

There is a policy in place for new and updated apps that are submitted to the Play Store. An app needs to be published within a year of the last major release of the OS. The new policy expands coverage to existing, abandoned, and unused apps on the Play Store, rather than just those still receiving updates.

In the past, some big names continued to target old Android APIs in an attempt to avoid newer and more restrictive privacy and security policies. The Facebook app was targeting a two-year-old application programming interface, while theSnapchat app was targeting a three-year-old one.