Google to ban Android apps that use deceptive ads

Google wants to make sure its users aren’t being taken advantage of by bad developers. The tech giant released new rules for Google Play apps. They want advertisers to clarify how and when they will use in-app purchases.  They want to take out apps that have pop-up ads designed to spoof a service, app notification, or system in order to have you clicking on something you shouldn’t.

Google also wants to get rid of “promotion or install tactics” as well that force downloads or Play Store redirects with your approval. And they want to get rid of unsolicited SMS ads and any use of “erotic content” to promote pornography. The developers are given a 15-day grace period before Google bans those that don’t comply with the revised rules.

Source: Engadget

Facebook dumped last year’s redesign due to small screens

You have netbook users and other small-screened PC users to blame if you’ve been waiting for the picture-heavy version of Facebook’s News Feed. The social network dumped the idea because the layout didn’t look right on netbooks and other PCS with smaller screens. Facebook had to give up the possible revenue this new feature could offer because it meant they could please hundreds and millions of users who use the site on those devices.

Source: Engadget

Coursera debuts Android app

After debuting an iOS application over three months ago, Coursera has introduced an Android version. The online learning company aims to provide global access to free education. It made a data-light and user-friendly app to make sure it can be accessible to students who don’t have access to the latest smartphones or tablets.

The Android version looks similar to the iOS app and lets users enroll in over 600 courses from institutions such as Yale and Stanford, stream lectures, save lectures for offline viewing, and manage content on the app. Coursera for Android is available in 12 languages, including English, Russian, Spanish, and Chinese.

Source: The Next Web

Video: All Hands on Tech checks out Datawind's $38 Ubislate tablet

There are cheap tablets and there's Datawind's $38 Ubislate which features a 7-inch slate running the now-vintage Android 4.0.3  Ice Cream Sandwich Google OS on a  800 x 480 capacitive display. How can a tablet at this price point disrupt the industry? All Hands on Tech analyzes the possibilities.