Google Play Updates Family Sharing Rules
(Google Play Family Sharing Restrictions)
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. – Google has changed how its Family Sharing feature works on Google Play. These adjustments affect how families share apps, games, movies, and books. The goal is to prevent misuse and follow payment rules.
Family Sharing lets up to five relatives share digital purchases. Now everyone in the group must live in the same country. Payment methods must also come from that same country. This stops people from forming groups across different regions.
Existing family groups have limited time to follow the new rules. If members live in separate countries or use foreign payment cards, sharing may stop working. Google started notifying users about these changes through email and app alerts.
The update helps Google address regional licensing agreements. Some content isn’t available everywhere due to publisher rules. The tighter controls reduce sharing across borders. Families traveling or living abroad face access issues if accounts don’t match their current country.
Users must check their family group settings. Payment methods and country details need verification. Those who can’t meet the requirements will lose shared content access. Google support pages offer guidance for adjusting account settings.
(Google Play Family Sharing Restrictions)
This move follows similar policies from Apple and Amazon. Industry experts note companies increasingly enforce digital purchase boundaries. Consumer advocates express concern about families separated by geography. Google emphasizes the changes protect developers and payment systems.
