Google Removes We-Vibe App From Google Play Store

Google Removes We-Vibe App From Google Play Store

LOS ANGELES — WOW Tech Group has announced that its We-Connect app, which allows its We-Vibe couples vibrators to be used wirelessly from anywhere in the world, has been removed from the Google Play Store.

In a statement released by WOW Tech today, We-Vibe reps shared that the app was determined by Google to be "sexually explicit and in violation of their policies."

"Although we disagree with the assessment, we are working with Google to get the We-Connect app restored as quickly as possible," the statement read. 

While the We-Vibe team says they are working swiftly to resolve the issue with Google, they shared that the app's removal likely came as the result of a product image that was deemed by Google to be too explicit to be shared on their platform. 

"We have removed the image and have resubmitted the app for approval," WOW Tech reps said. "We expect the We-Connect app to be restored and available on the Google Play Store within the next 48 hours. Should the app not be approved and restored by that time, we will provide an alternative app distribution option via our website."   

The Google-WOW Tech dust-up is latest clash between Big Tech and the sexual wellness industry. As sextech companies continue to be denied access to various online platforms, blocked from the business opportunities presented by being a part of Google's ubiquitous network, it begs the question: to what end is this game being played? 

While Google's policies explicitly restrict apps that feature "content or services intended to be sexually gratifying," lumped in with hate speech, bullying and "dangerous products," (i.e. guns), it could be argued that indeed, much of the purpose of utilizing the We-Connect app lies in the pursuit of sexual gratification.

However, like Dame Products and their fight against New York's MTA over discriminatory advertising policies, or Lora DiCarlo demanding their seat at last year's CES trade show, or the ongoing gripe with social media's prudish take on anything having to do with women's bodies, let alone sexual pleasure, the removal of the We-Connect app from Google Play is just the latest in a disappointing string of blows to an industry that is facing increasing pressure from Big Tech to take branded sex-positivity elsewhere. 

As platforms ramp up their Terms of Service to exclude sexual wellness advocates, pleasure product companies, sex workers, or anyone dealing in the business of sex and pleasure, unfortunately companies and individuals alike are left with fewer and fewer options to cater to their customers.

Copyright © 2024 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Fleshy to Launch Interactive Cam Site 'Eremote'

Male pleasure brand Fleshy has announced that it will launch an interactive, bidirectional cam site next month called Eremote.

New York Magazine Names 'Magic Wand Rechargeable' Its 'Best Overall Vibrator'

New York Magazine's "The Strategist" vertical has named Vibratex's Magic Wand Rechargeable the best overall vibrator.

Global Novelties Debuts New 'Stoner Vibes' Collection

Global Novelties has introduced its new Stoner Vibes in the Rear collection.

2025 XBIZ Exec Awards Nominees for Retail Industry Announced

XBIZ is pleased to announce the nominees for the retail industry edition of the 2025 XBIZ Exec Awards, set to be presented as part of the annual XBIZ Honors ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 18 in conjunction with XBIZ Expo.

JO to Hold Retail Associate Giveaway Throughout 2025

Lubricant brand JO has announced plans to conduct a retail associate giveaway each month throughout 2025.

Honey Play Box Sponsors La Faye Rose 'Pink October' Fundraiser

Honey Play Box sponsored La Faye Rose’s annual Pink October breast cancer fundraiser event, on Oct. 13.

Pink Toyz Rolls Out New Site Features

Online retailer Pink Toyz has introduced two new website features designed to enhance customer experiences and education.

Dame Launches Crowdfunding Campaign for New 'Hug' Cock Ring

Dame has kicked off an Indiegogo campaign to fund its new Hug cock ring.

Nalpac Releases 2024 Winter Catalog

Nalpac has released its 68-page 2024 winter catalog.

Pipedream Debuts 10 New Pleasure Products for Pre-Order

Pipedream Products is accepting pre-orders for ten new pleasure products.

Show More