Bigo Live Removed from App Store and Google Play

Tried reinstalling bigo live but couldn’t find it in the App Store

Bigo Live, a widely recognized social live-streaming platform developed by Bigo Technology Pte Ltd, has faced significant challenges regarding its availability in major app stores. Recently, the app was removed from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store on a global scale, although it continues to be accessible on Google Play，albeit under scrutiny.This situation has sparked concerns among users about the platform's future and accessibility.

This is not the first time Bigo Live has encountered such challenges. The platform has previously faced bans in various countries due to issues related to content and compliance with local regulations. These concerns often revolve around the nature of the content shared by users and the platform's adherence to laws governing digital communication. As Bigo Live navigates these ongoing regulatory hurdles, it will need to enhance its content moderation practices and compliance measures to maintain its presence in the competitive landscape of social media and live streaming.

• When you try to open Bigo on App Store, you'll see this:

  

• And when it comes to Google Play, it'll be like this （without the install button):

Why BIigo Removed from the App Store and Google Play?

Compliance Issues

The recent removal of Bigo Live from both the App Store and Play Store has been attributed to non-compliance with advertising regulations and potential violations of content guidelines established by Google. Reports suggest that the app may have hosted offensive video content, prompting stricter enforcement of policies by these platforms. In addition to Bigo Live, a significant number of live-streaming social apps have also been removed from app stores, including prominent products like LiveMe and MICO LIVE. These apps primarily operate in 1V1 and live-streaming formats. Due to their user-generated content (UGC) and high-frequency user interaction, social and live-streaming apps often become key targets for regulatory scrutiny by national and regional authorities.

This situation underscores the importance for app developers to pay close attention to the app store ecosystem and emerging policy trends. The consequences of having an app taken down can be substantial, affecting both user engagement and revenue. Therefore, before launching new applications, it is essential to thoroughly review all policies and guidelines set forth by platforms like Google Play to ensure compliance and avoid potential pitfalls. Staying informed about regulatory changes can help developers mitigate risks and maintain their app's availability.

Previous Bans

Bigo Live has a documented history of being banned in several countries due to various concerns. In 2016, the platform faced sanctions in Indonesia for allegedly hosting pornographic content. More recently, in 2020, Bigo Live was included in India's list of banned applications, primarily due to national security concerns. The Indian government cited that the app posed risks to the country's sovereignty and integrity, highlighting the ongoing challenges that Bigo Live and similar platforms encounter in navigating regulatory landscapes across different regions.

Impact on Bigo Users and Market

The removal of Bigo Live from the App Store and Play Store has left many users frustrated, particularly those who rely on the platform for live-streaming and content creation. Many streamers have expressed concerns about the implications of this ban on their livelihoods, as they depend on the app for income. The sudden loss of access has prompted discussions about the sustainability of their streaming activities and the potential for financial instability.

Despite its absence from the ecosystems of Google Play and Apple, Bigo Live continues to function on Android devices, which may lead to a shift in user demographics. Some iOS users might consider switching to Android to maintain access to the service, reflecting a potential change in the platform's user base. Bigo Technology has publicly stated that it respects local laws and intends to comply with all regulatory requirements, emphasizing its commitment to user privacy and security while awaiting further clarity from authorities regarding the situation.

In response to past bans, Bigo has shown a willingness to temporarily withdraw its applications from specific markets until compliance issues are resolved. This proactive approach suggests that the company is determined to maintain its global presence while adhering to local regulations, demonstrating a commitment to both its users and the legal frameworks within which it operates.

Bigo-alike Apps Removed from Play Store

The same issue happens to these apps，If your app not working on your phone, try a trusted third-party source, for example, APKHUB.