Google to Add Play Store Warnings for Apps Removed From Store

Overview

• The change is based on text strings found in Play Store build v51.4.19 that suggest the app will notify users when an installed app is no longer offered on Google Play.
• The discovery of those strings was reported by Android Authority and picked up by PC-WELT, COMPUTER BILD and Chip on Tuesday and Wednesday.
• Reported wording indicates notices would flag that removed apps will not receive updates and that messages may be bundled rather than shown for each app.
• Google has not confirmed the feature and the timing of any rollout remains unknown, so the findings reflect an unannounced, developing change rather than a released function.
• If implemented, the alerts would extend Play Protect’s role by surfacing availability and maintenance risks and could help users decide whether to keep, replace or delete apps that no longer get updates.