Android Question Play Store restrict access App

[imbault]

Hello Team,

I have an app currently published on the Play Store, and I am seeking the simplest solution to restrict access for users who have already downloaded it. Could you please advise on the most simple and efficient way to disable or block app usage for these users?

Thank you for your help!

 

[JohnC]

ChatGPT says...

To restrict access to your B4A app for users who have already downloaded it, here are the simplest and most efficient methods you can implement:

1. Remove the App from the Google Play Store:
   • Action: Unpublish or deactivate your app on the Google Play Store.
   • Effect: This prevents new users from downloading the app but does not affect existing users.
   • How-to: In your Google Play Console, select your app and choose the option to unpublish it.
2. Disable Server-Side Functionality (If Applicable):
   • Action: If your app relies on server-side resources (like APIs, databases, or authentication services), you can disable these services.
   • Effect: Existing users will not be able to use app features that require server interaction.
   • How-to: Adjust your server settings or code to reject requests coming from the app.
3. Push an App Update that Disables Functionality:
   • Action: Release a new version of your app that displays a message informing users that the app is no longer available and then exits.
   • Effect: Users who update the app will no longer be able to use it.
   • How-to:
     • In your B4A project, modify the main activity to show an alert dialog in the Activity_Create event:
       b4a
       Copy code
       Sub Activity_Create(FirstTime As Boolean)
       Msgbox("This app is no longer available.", "Notice")
       ExitApplication
       End Sub
     • Compile and publish this new version to the Play Store.
4. Use Google Play Licensing (If Previously Implemented):
   • Action: If your app uses Google Play's licensing service, you can change the license status to block access.
   • Effect: Licensed users will receive a message that the app is unlicensed.
   • How-to: In your Google Play Console, adjust the licensing settings for your app.
5. Inform Users Directly:
   • Action: Update the app's description on the Play Store and use any in-app communication channels to inform users that the app is discontinued.
   • Effect: Encourages users to stop using the app voluntarily.
   • How-to: Edit your app's store listing to include the discontinuation notice.

Please Note:

• Limitations: You cannot force uninstall the app from users' devices or prevent them from using a standalone app that doesn't rely on server-side resources.
• User Experience: Be considerate of the user experience. Providing clear communication helps maintain a positive relationship with your user base.

Summary: The most straightforward method is to unpublish the app and disable any server-side dependencies. For a more robust solution, combine this with pushing an app update that disables functionality for users who install updates.

 

[LucaMs]

3!