Fantasy sports have grown rapidly in India, the U.S., and around the world. Millions of players enjoy testing their skills and competing online. However, Google sets strict rules for which apps can appear on the Play Store. The Google Play Store policy for Fantasy Sports apps ensures that only safe, licensed, and skill-based apps are available to users. These rules also protect players, prevent underage gambling, and maintain fairness. Let’s explore the key rules and requirements in detail.
Google Play Store Policies on Fantasy Sports Apps
1. Geographic Restrictions
First, Google restricts DFS apps to certain countries. Apps are allowed in the United States and in other regions where developers hold a valid gambling license. For example, in India, Google ran a pilot program from September 28, 2022, to September 28, 2023. This program allowed Indian developers to list DFS and Rummy apps on the Play Store. Because of its success, Google extended the pilot and now proposes allowing all real-money gaming apps, including DFS, under updated rules. In short, developers must check where their apps can legally operate before publishing.
2. Licensing Requirements
Next up, developers need to secure a valid gambling license for each region where the app will be available. The license must specifically cover DFS games. Additionally, the app cannot offer other gambling products outside the license’s scope. This ensures that the platform remains fully legal and prevents regulatory issues. In other words, licensing protects both the developer and the users by keeping all transactions and gameplay legal.
3. Age and Access Restrictions
Another important rule is age verification. DFS apps need to ensure that users under 18 are not allowed to play or make any monetary transactions. Google requires developers to implement robust age-gating mechanisms. Moreover, apps must use geo-blocking to stop access in countries, states, or territories where the developer does not hold a license. Therefore, age and location checks are critical to keep the platform safe and compliant.
4. App Distribution and Payments
Additionally, Google requires DFS apps to be free to download. Developers cannot sell apps as paid downloads, nor can they use Google Play Billing for real-money transactions. Furthermore, apps must have an AO (Adult Only) rating or an equivalent rating under IARC standards. This ensures that the apps reach the right audience while remaining compliant with Play Store policies.
5. Responsible Gambling Measures
Moreover, Google emphasizes responsible gaming. Apps and their listings on the Play Store need to prominently showcase responsible gambling information. They should also provide links or helplines for gambling addiction support in the user’s country. Most apps place this info in the footer or main menu. Consequently, users can easily find help if they face any issues, promoting safe gaming practices.
6. Compliance with Local Laws
When it comes to DFS apps, they need to follow local laws and adhere to Google Play policies.
- In the U.S., developers must obtain separate licenses for each state requiring one and block access in unlicensed states.
- In India, developers must follow the legal definition of fantasy sports as games of skill, as confirmed by the Supreme Court in 2021.
Thus, compliance with local laws protects both developers and players from legal risks.
7. Pilot Program in India (2022–2023 and Beyond)
Finally, Google kicked off a pilot program in India that opened the door for local developers to launch their own DFS and Rummy apps. To make this happen, developers had to:
- Submit applications and provide user data like PAN cards and bank account information.
- Ensure apps did not redirect users to external gambling sites.
- Focus on the Indian audience.
Initially set to end in 2023, the program was extended. After a 2024 Competition Commission of India (CCI) probe, Google proposed a new framework to allow all real-money gaming apps, including DFS, under stricter rules. As a result, the program helps Indian players access safe and licensed fantasy sports apps.
Conclusion
The Google Play Store policy for Fantasy Sports apps ensures safe, licensed, and skill-based gaming platforms. By enforcing rules on age verification, licensing, responsible gambling, and local law compliance, Google protects users and maintains fairness. Moreover, India’s pilot program shows that structured regulation can allow DFS apps to grow while keeping users safe. Overall, these policies create a trustworthy environment for developers and players alike.
