Google Play no longer is the Wild West, and that's good for developers and users

The news that Google is now reviewing apps submitted to Google Play is bound to draw the ire of folks who prefer a wide-open Internet. But the long-term ramifications mean better apps for all.

There have been some pretty clear battle lines drawn within Android Central over the years, even if the two sides aren't readily apparent publicly. For some time I've advocated that Google need some sort of screening process for apps submitted to Google Play. There's just too much junk, too many ripoffs and too many ways for consumers to get burned by bad apps.

On the other side are those of us who believe that the entire Android ecosystem should be as open as possible, and that includes Google Play. Publish at will.

We're both right, in our own ways. But today, as Google's announced it's pre-screening new submissions as well as updates, the Google Play Store is no longer the Wild West. And that's in no uncertain terms good for users, and good for developers.