Policy: Enhanced Privacy through Data Deletion Options in Android Apps

The requirement to create a user account when using smartphone apps is becoming increasingly common. However, these accounts often persist even when the app is uninstalled. To address this issue, Google has decided to tighten the guidelines for Android apps.

Starting at the end of May 2024, app developers on the Play Store are required to provide a feature that allows users to remove their account and personal data. This option should be accessible either directly in the app or through a browser if a user account exists. If the app has already been uninstalled, users can use the browser to remove their data without having to reinstall the app. Developers must include a corresponding link for browser-based deletion in the app's entry on the Google Play Store. Google will then expand the privacy information in the app listing to include this aspect.

Data protection is a critical factor in today's digital world. Insufficient deletion of personal data can lead to privacy breaches and misuse of information. Therefore, it is important that app developers provide the option to fully delete user data.

However, it should be noted that data that must continue to be stored for legal or security-related reasons are exempt from this deletion obligation.