I want to download an android betting app, but can’t find it in the Google play store – why?
The most likely reasons you can’t find the betting app you’re searching for are:
- You’ve entered a typo in your search.
- You’re based in a country where betting is illegal.
Previously, a hard stance on sports betting and gambling apps, meant that all gambling related services and content were forbidden in the Google Play store. However, that stance has since changed and betting apps are available in the majority of countries. It’s easier to list the countries where betting apps are unavailable, rather than listing those where they are permitted.
Countries where betting apps are not available in Google play
| Country | Sports Betting | Casino | Bingo | Lotteries |
| China | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| India | Varies by State | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Varies by State |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| Qatar | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| Indonesia | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| Saudi Arabia | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| Turkey | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| Pakistan | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| Thailand | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| North Korea | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| South Korea | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Limited Forms |
| Vietnam | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted |
| Japan | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Not Permitted | Limited Forms |
| Russia | Heavily Regulated | Heavily Regulated | Heavily Regulated | Heavily Regulated |
Notes:
- “Not Permitted” – this indicates that Google Play does not allow betting apps in the country due to local regulations.
- “Varies by State” – indicates that the legal status differs by state. Some states permit certain forms of betting, while others do not.
- “Limited Forms” – this means that only specific types of betting apps (such as government-licensed lotteries or highly regulated sports betting) are allowed.
The above table provides a general overview only. Local regulations change frequently, so it’s important to check with specific country or regional authorities for up-to-date rules. You can always refer to Google policy documentation for the latest information.
How do I amend my device settings to download an android betting app?
This is only applicable if you are downloading an app directly from the betting site, as opposed to via the app store.
- Firstly go to the setting options on your Android phone or tablet.
- Following, select security and tick the Allow Unknown Sources Box.
- You will now be able to download APK files from sources other than the Google Play store.
- Once you’re done, feel free to revert this change.
Will the app be compatible with my android device type?
Excellent question – chances are that it will be compatible with your device type, but the performance may be impacted by the version of Android software that you are running. If you are running with the latest version of Android, then the likelihood is that you will not experience any performance issues with your device. However, as many companies use wrapper apps as opposed to native apps, it is not uncommon for users to experience cosmetic display issues, as it is difficult for betting operators to ensure that the application functions correctly across all device types. Generally most betting companies will support top-range and most frequently used device types, with limited support for lower tier devices or Android operating system versions.
Have any further questions? Let us know & we’ll update our FAQ’s accordingly.