Google announced on Thursday (28) a change in the terms of use of Google Play that will now allow betting and gambling applications in several countries. The measure also applies to Brazil, even if partially.
It was only a few years ago that Google opened up the Play Store for online gambling operators in the UK, Ireland, France and Brazil, and we knew that this would expand further. From March, operators from the following countries will be allowed to publish their apps with Google: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Romania, Spain, Sweden, and the United States.
Online sports betting and gaming is experiencing rapid growth in the United States, and operators will benefit from distributing their Android apps with Google. No doubt, this is excellent news for them.
So far, customers have been able to download Android online gambling apps directly from the operator’s website, but they’d also need to update them manually, as well as bypassing phone security settings. It was also more difficult to advertise these apps and reach relevant demographics. Now, Google will help to address this challenge and operators will also have a chance of reaching a wider audience more effectively.
"We allow real-money gambling apps, ads related to real-money gambling and daily fantasy sports apps that meet certain requirements," Google's support page now says.
To be eligible, app makers must complete a gambling application form, comply with state and country laws where the app is being used and have a valid gambling license for each state or country it wants to operate in. These apps must be rated adult only and display information about responsible gambling.
Apps must also ensure they prevent minors from being able to use the app, and the app cannot be a paid app on Google Play or use Google Play in-app billing.
What are the rules for Brazil?
Despite the changes, Google Play already allowed betting applications in Brazil, due to Decree-Law 13.756 / 2018, which allows foreign companies to offer this type of service in the country. The criteria, however, depend on an external certification made by Caixa Econômica Federal.
What about gambling? Well, these will continue to be suspended in Brazil. The prohibition of this practice is historical in Brazil, refers to Law No. 3,688 of 1941 (over 70 years old) which also includes sports betting. The only exception is horse racing, which is also allowed on Google Play.
Currently, a new Bill aims to specifically regulate casinos and betting applications in the country, since this type of app has been spread around the world and is also present in the marketing of uniforms and televised events.
Source: GMB
