Google Play shrinks by 47 percent following policy overhaul

In context: The number of apps available on Google Play has dropped sharply over the past year, following a period of extensive clean-up and stricter quality enforcement. Far from being concerned about this streamlined and more carefully curated app environment, many Android users and developers are pleased with the changes.

The Google Play Store, the largest marketplace for Android apps, has shrunk dramatically over the past year. Since early 2024, its app count has dropped from 3.4 million to 1.8 million – a 47 percent decline. TechCrunch cites app analytics firm Appfigures, noting that this drop sharply contrasts with the Apple App Store, which grew slightly from 1.6 million to 1.64 million in the same timeframe.

This sudden decline is not part of a global trend – it stems from Google's push to improve app quality and security. The Play Store allowed relatively open submissions for years ...