Google updated its Play Store policy today to restrict applications that either straightforwardly sell or help facilitate the sale of marijuana, even in states where the drug is lawful. Applications that offer highlights, for example, weed delivery are currently in risk of being expelled from the Play Store except if they can agree and evacuate the culpable highlights within the next 30 days, as indicated by a report from Android Police.
Google’s new policy states unequivocally that the organization doesn’t permit applications “that facilitate the sale of marijuana or marijuana products, regardless of legality.” It offers examples of violations, including enabling clients to order marijuana straightforwardly through the application, aiding the delivery or get of the drug, or selling different items containing THC – like edibles. Applications like Weedmaps, which offers weed ordering through its platform, and Eaze will probably need to make changes to their services or face a boycott.
In light of Google’s updated Play Store rules, a representative for Eaze told Engadget, “Google’s decision is a disappointing development that only helps the illegal market thrive, but we are confident that Google, Apple and Facebook will eventually do the right thing and allow legal cannabis companies to do business on their platforms. We regret any inconvenience this may cause for customers and patients.”
The policy change presumably shouldn’t come as a noteworthy astonishment, as Google places comparative limitations on applications that facilitate the sale of tobacco. Google has additionally been attempting to give the Play Store a more kid-friendly picture of late and has recently come under fire for allowing violent content in games targeted toward children. Of course, the company isn’t alone in shying away from getting into the weed business. Many banks still refuse to handle money from weed retailers for fear of violating federal rules that still consider the sale of the drug to be illegal.