It’s now easier for Google to find out if an app is asking too much info from you

There are apps on the Play Store that ask way too much information from you. And while Android apps have mostly been developed to entertain and help us with our daily lives, it makes sense they need certain access to certain features—like a camera app needing access to your camera sensor. But sometimes there are other apps that ask too much from its users. For example, what would a coloring book app need with your location and microphone? These can potentially lead to leaking your personal information that you didn’t want others to know. But it’s hard to spot which apps ask too much from its users. However, Google seems to be working on that.

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Google rumoured to be re-thinking its revenue sharing with app developers

After Apple announced its new plan for app developers, Google’s reportedly thinking of doing the same thing for its own developers. According to Recode, though, the 85/15 revenue split Google also plans to implement will begin immediately. It won’t require developers to have a user subscribe for one year before the new revenue sharing method kicks in, which is what Apple is doing. Unnamed sources said Google has been trying this out with entertainment companies over a year ago with video services to boost its offerings as well as have them work on its TV streaming devices such as the Cast dongle. There isn’t any confirmation yet, though, if Google will implement this and when. Google has long been trying to get developers to invest in its platform like they do with Apple so we won’t be surprised if the tech giant does resolve to do this.

Source: Recode

Google gets rid of user testimonials on Play Store

Google updated its Play Store guidelines for developers to ban them from including customer testimonials in the app or game description portion. They want to make sure it takes out any misleading or irrelevant keywords that might affect relevancy and ranking. They want Android users instead to speak about the apps or games through the Play’s comment review system.

Source: Google | Via: Cult of Android

TechBlocks wants to develop your app for free, worth $30,000

Does your business need a mobile app?

TechBlocks wants to develop your app for free, worth $30,000. TechBlocks, a full-service consulting and development agency with locations in Vaughn, Ontario and Calgary, Alberta is accepting ideas from any North American business or charity with a bright app idea. Businesses can submit their idea here: http://promo.tblocks.com/mobile-contest and receive up to $30,000 towards their app’s development.  The key criterion is how popular your app idea is with your audience. So the sooner you submit the sooner you can start sharing! A panel of TechBlocks judges will then pick the winner. 

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