The official Organic Maps X-Account announced that the store page for the Android version of the free, open-source maps app Organic Maps was suddenly removed from Google Play. The store page has since been restored, but the exact reason for its removal remains unknown.
Last night, Organic Maps was removed from the Play Store without warnings or further details because it “does not meet the Family Program requirements.” Unlike Google Maps and other map apps that are rated for children ages 3 and up, Organic Maps has no ads or in-app purchases. We…
pic.twitter.com/3DA4H3qEdU — Organic Maps: Explore, hike, bike, drive offline (@OrganicMapsApp) 17 August 2024
ORganic Maps is an open source mapping app that allows you to download maps based on the open source collaboration project. OpenStreetMap ‘ and use them offline. The following article has examined what kind of map app Organic Maps actually is.
I tried Organic Maps, an open-source map app that is free and ad-free to use even when you are out of range – GIGAZINE
According to Organic Maps’ official X-account, the app was suddenly removed from Google Play on August 17, 2024, without warning or additional information, on the grounds that it “did not meet the requirements of Google Play Family Policy .’
Google Play’s family policy states: “Apps that claim to be for children but distribute adult content, glorify alcohol, tobacco or drugs, or show content such as gambling, violence or murder or adult advertising are subject to violations.” However, since Organic Maps does not contain advertising or in-app purchases and cannot contain content that is inappropriate for children, Organic Maps has filed an appeal with Google Play.
About 13 hours after the official Organic Maps X account posted, the Organic Maps store page on Google Play was restored. However, Google did not provide any notification or explanation when the store page was restored.
Good news! Organic Maps reappeared on the Google Play Store last night without any notifications or explanations. We appreciate your feedback and support!
Stay tuned for the upcoming update, which is already available for iOS.
Let’s create the best cards for everyone…— Organic Maps: Explore, hike, bike, drive offline (@OrganicMapsApp) 18 August 2024
On the social news site Hacker News there are many posts arguing that Google’s monopoly on app stores is problematic. When there are issues between Google and an app provider, there is no independent judicial authority. Google is in charge of the legislative, administrative, and judicial branches. There is a reason why many people in democratic countries don’t like the state having all the power in its hands. “Personally, I’m not surprised that Google did this. Its developers delete a lot of apps from Google Play!” “Google continues to delete unused developer accounts and low-quality apps, but if I want to delete my app from Google Play and close my developer account, it’s impossible, I can only hide it. There is no button to delete the developer account. This is a double standard.” Many people have posted objections to the situation where Google’s sole discretion decides the life and death of apps and developer accounts.
