By Kamal Khan
Published: September 6, 2023
In a significant development for the Indian gaming industry, Google Play has announced the conclusion of its limited-time pilot program, which enabled the distribution of daily fantasy sports and rummy apps in India. The program, which aimed to provide users with a safe and enjoyable gaming experience, will officially end on September 28, 2023. Notably, no new apps will be accepted into the pilot program after this scheduled end date.
Google Play’s decision to launch the pilot program was in anticipation of the forthcoming Self-Regulatory Bodies (SRB) framework for verifying permissible online real-money games in India. With the goal of ensuring that all games comply with Google Play’s stringent policies and regulations, the platform is preparing to facilitate the distribution of SRB-verified online real-money games.
As a gesture of goodwill to existing pilot apps, Google Play has extended a grace period, allowing them to remain on the platform until January 15, 2024, provided they continue to meet the pilot program’s terms and conditions. This extension offers developers more time to adapt to the changing landscape and make any necessary adjustments to ensure their apps align with the impending SRB framework.
In an official statement, Google Play expressed its commitment to providing users with a safe and enjoyable gaming experience and emphasized that they are closely monitoring developments related to the SRB framework. The platform intends to collaborate with developers to facilitate the distribution of SRB-verified real-money games that adhere to its policies.
This decision marks a significant step forward for both game developers and users in India. It reflects Google Play’s dedication to fostering a responsible gaming ecosystem by working in tandem with the upcoming SRB framework. By providing a grace period for existing pilot apps, the platform ensures a smoother transition while reinforcing its commitment to user safety and enjoyment.
The Indian gaming industry can now look forward to a more structured and regulated environment with the advent of the SRB framework, assuring players of a secure and enjoyable gaming experience. Developers are encouraged to stay abreast of developments in this ever-evolving landscape as Google Play prepares to usher in the next phase of gaming on its platform.