DESIGNED FOR FAMILIES: That's the name of a new program announced by Google to help parents find pre-approved, child-appropriate apps on the Google Play store. Developers interested in submitting their apps must meet stricter requirements, including a clear disclosure of interactive features, a "persistent" privacy policy around how information may be shared with third parties, and an ESRB rating of Everyone of Everyone 10+. In-app purchases will still be allowed but apps must not use "overly aggressive commercial tactics."
All approved apps must also fall into one of the following categories: Action & Adventure, Brain Games, Creativity, Education, Pretend Play or Music and Video. The company also says this program will replace the "Families Games" category in May 2015.
