Google has set a new rule for Android apps that allows users to delete their accounts and data. The new regulation also requires app providers to offer account termination and data deletion on their website. The new changes would take effect in early 2024. This rule ensures that users do not need to reinstall an application that has been uninstalled just to delete their account and data.
App developers must provide relevant information about their data deletion procedures by December 7, 2022. For those who need more time, they can apply for an extension until the end of May 2024 through the Google Play console. Google allows providers the freedom to offer their users more choice when it comes to data erasure, so users could decide to have all or only certain data stored by the provider deleted.
Google also has exceptions for applications that want to continue storing certain data for legitimate purposes, such as legal regulations, combating fraud, or security-related purposes. However, restrictions on the right to data erasure must be clearly disclosed before the app is installed.
Since July 2022, a similar rule has applied to applications from Apple’s App Store. iOS apps must provide a deletion function for accounts if they also allow them to be set up. Meta Platforms took full advantage of the delay and only updated Instagram accounts to be deleted directly in iPhone apps at the very last minute. However, Meta still doesn’t make it that easy for Android users.
