Google approves DFS and rummy apps for India Play Store

Google has paved the way for daily fantasy sports (DFS) and rummy apps to go live on its Play Store in India in a major policy shift by the tech giant.

The Play Store is set to host a year-long pilot programme, starting on 28 September, to allow DFS and rummy operators to launch apps on the platform.

Those companies looking to take part in the programme need to submit an application form to Google.

Google requires that the apps taking part in the programme are only accessible by persons over the age of 18 and that the app holds the requisite licences to operate.

However, Google will not allow apps to be purchasable as a paid app, nor will it allow developers to use Google Play’s in-app billing function.

It remains unclear if Google will allow apps to use alternative payment methods.

The Alphabet-owned brand has previously launched app pilots concerning the gambling industry in Japan.

Earlier this year, Google gave the green light to online crane games to go live on the Play Store in the Asian nation on a one-year programme.

The shift in policy from Google marks a welcome period for DFS operators in India, including Dream11 and Mobile Premier League, both of which have long lobbied to have apps on the Play Store.