Google has announced a new Google Play Store data deletion policy that will require Android developers to provide users with an online option to delete their accounts and in-app data.

According to the new policy, from the beginning of 2024, Google Play users will have better control over their data since each product sheet will display links in the “Data deletion” area, allowing them to request the deletion of their accounts and/or or data. .

Developers who provide an in-app account deletion experience should also provide a web-based option since Google wants to allow users to delete their data without reinstalling each app.

“As the new policy states, when you respond to an account deletion request, you must also delete the data associated with that account,” Google said. explain.

“The feature also gives developers a way to offer more choice: users who don’t want to delete their account entirely can choose to delete other data only when appropriate (such as activity history, images, or videos).

“For developers who need to retain certain data for legitimate reasons such as security, fraud prevention, or regulatory compliance, you should clearly disclose those data retention practices.”

The new Play Store rule will come into full effect next year, with developers first expected to share more details about their data deletion practices by December 7.

Starting in early 2024, users will be able to see submitted data deletion information in app store listings, including updated data deletion badges in the new data deletion area, as well as the Data Security section. data.

Those who do not file the required deletion practice information on time will no longer be able to publish new applications or publish application updates.

While developers can request an extension through the Play Console until May 31, 2024, after that date non-compliant apps may be removed from Google Play.

Google’s announcement follows a similar move by Apple, which, from June 2022asked developers of apps with an account creation option to also provide users with a way to delete their accounts from apps.