Google Play Store app privacy labels: Tech major introduces new data safety section on lines of Apple App Store- Know how it enhances transparency for users

The internet major Google on Tuesday announced that a new data safety section will be introduced in the Play Store. The users will start seeing the data safety section in the Google Play app store from April 27 onwards.

In the new safety section, the company will ask developers to provide more information about how apps collect, share, and secure users' data. App developers have till July 20 to update their listings with the new information.

"As app developers update their functionality or change their data handling practices, they will show the latest in the apps` Data safety section," the company said in a blog post.

The Google Play Store initiative comes after Apple's App Store launched a similar feature in late 2020. From Wednesday, users will be able to access the Data Security section of Google Play.

"We designed the Data safety section to allow developers to clearly mark what data is being collected and for what purpose it`s being used. Users can also see whether the app needs this data to function or if this data collection is optional," said Google.

Google has also worked hard to provide users control over installed apps via simple permissions features, according to the company.

"The taxonomy and framework of the Data safety section on Google Play may differ materially from those used in other app stores," the company said.

The initiative is meant to "help people understand the data an app collects or shares, if that data is secured, and additional details that impact privacy and security."

(With the inputs of IANS)