Google Play forces AnkiDroid to strip its donation link

Google is threatening to kick AnkiDroid off the Play Store unless the open-source flashcard app removes its donation link.

AnkiDroid's maintainers say Google blocked their latest updates over a link to Open Collective. Store rules allow outside links for tax-exempt organizations. But Google support claims the app's fiscal host—a tax-exempt 501(c)(6) non-profit—does not qualify. To avoid a global store removal on September 11, the volunteer team is removing the link under protest.

Why it matters: AnkiDroid has over 10 million installs and relies on Open Collective as its sole funding source. Google's stance forces free open-source projects to either cut off direct reader tips or route payments through Play billing.

Know this: You can still support the volunteer developers directly by visiting AnkiDroid's public ledger on Open Collective through your browser.

Apparently, even non-profit flashcards can't escape app store bureaucracy.