Google confirms Android dev verification will have tiers, no public list of devs
a day ago
- #App Verification
- #Android
- #Google Policies
- Google reassures users that sideloading apps will remain possible but will become more difficult.
- A new system component called the Android Developer Verifier will confirm app verification status in Android 16.
- App installations will rely more on the cloud, requiring internet access for verification in most cases.
- Developers will face new fees, similar to the current Google Play registration fee of $25.
- Hobbyists and students can use a free, lesser tier of verification with just an email, but with installation limits.
- Google is still deciding how alternative app stores can use pre-auth tokens to bypass network calls.
- The verification process may disrupt F-Droid, a popular FOSS storefront.