No betting apps on the Google Play Store? Here’s why

You're looking to claim a lucrative betting sign-up bonus on your Samsung smartphone. Or maybe you've been betting for a while and now you're finally ready to take the plunge into the world of betting apps. But you go on the Google play store and you can't find any iGaming apps.

What gives?

You could swear that you saw somewhere that there was supposed to be an Android betting app for your favourite bookmaker.

Or were you just dreaming?

No, it turns out that you were probably right. And here's why.

If you were staying up to date on the latest Google Play Store news then you would know that prior to July 2017, Google didn't allow any gambling or Australian betting apps in their app store.

However, it's not all bad. Since then Google has begun to soften its stance on iGaming apps.

Which countries have Android betting apps on the Google Play Store?

Since July 2017, Android betting and gambling apps have become available in the UK, France and Ireland, as well as in other countries like Australia where betting is heavily regulated and Australian operators must have a licence.

However, Google's strict stance still means that most betting companies do not have their apps on the Google Play Store, even in countries where they are legally allowed to operate like in Sweden or New Zealand.

Can you still download Android betting apps elsewhere?

Yes. For example, New Zealanders who are looking for Android betting apps can still download them directly from their favourite bookmaker's website. All the best betting sites in New Zealand have this option.

If you are a Kiwi or a bettor from one of these restricted countries, you'll also see that all Android betting apps are free and they generally function just as good as their Apple counterparts.

What betting apps are the best?

We recommend trying out the Bet365, 888sport and LeoVegas Android apps.

Bet365 consistently has the best sports odds of any international betting company and they also have fantastic live streaming coverage on their Android app. 888sport offers heaps of lucrative bonuses and boosts and provides great value for money. LeoVegas has won plenty of awards for their app. In fact, LeoVegas' whole company was born out of a ‘mobile-first' approach.

Overview of Google Play's restrictions on iGaming apps

• Companies must be licenced in countries like France, Ireland or the UK
• Apps must not be available for download in other countries
• iGaming apps should be free
• Apps must have information about responsible gambling
• Betting and gambling apps must offer real money wagering
• Underage players must be restricted from iGaming apps
• iGaming companies need to pass Google's application process