Metadata — Store listing metadata

App title, description, screenshots, and promotional images must accurately reflect the app's actual content and function — repeating keywords unnaturally or using misleading screenshots is a violation.

Usually flagged for keyword-stuffed descriptions written for ASO rather than users, or screenshots that show features not actually present in the current app version.

The short version, in more detail

Google Play requires that the title, description, screenshots and promotional images accurately reflect what the app contains and does. Repeating keywords unnaturally, or showing screenshots that include features the current version does not have, breaks the policy. Descriptions written to rank in search instead of informing people are a frequent source of warnings.

Why this rule exists

The listing is how people decide whether to install something. If the text is stuffed with keywords or the images promise features that are not there, users are misled and search results lose their value. Accurate metadata also keeps competition fair, since honest developers should not be outranked by those who game the listing. The policy treats the listing as part of the product.

What this guideline covers

• App title, short and full descriptions.
• Screenshots, icons and promotional graphics.
• Keyword use and repetition.
• Claims about performance, ratings or awards.

What usually triggers this rejection

• A description repeating keywords many times.
• Screenshots that show features not in the current version.
• Titles containing prices, ranks or irrelevant terms.
• References to other apps or brands to attract searches.
• Misleading claims about performance or popularity.

How reviewers evaluate it

• Reviewers read the listing and compare it with the app.
• Automated checks flag repetition and spam patterns.
• They look at the whole listing, including localised versions.
• Policy warnings can appear after release.

Common misunderstandings

• More keywords are not better. Natural language is expected.
• Promotional images are held to accuracy standards.
• The title field has specific limits on what it may contain.

Common questions