Your phone is about to stop being yours. In September 2026, Google will block every Android app whose developer hasn't registered with them.
A new layer of security for certified Android devices
Starting in 2026 and in select countries first, Android apps must be registered to a verified developer in order to be installed.
Tim Sweeney on Twitter / X
Google is opening up Android all the way with robust support for competing stores, competing payments, and a better deal for all developers. So, we've settled all of our disputes worldwide. THANKS GOOGLE! https://t.co/Dq6eXNnZd0— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) March 4, 2026
Android developer verification: Balancing openness and choice with safety
News and insights on the Android platform, developer tools, and events.
Unless users take action, Android will let Gemini access third-party apps
Important changes to Android devices took effect starting Monday.
An Open Letter to Google regarding Mandatory Developer Registration for Android App Distribution
Open Letter to Google Regarding Mandatory Developer Registration for Third-Party App Distribution
Android developer verification | Android Developers
Get started building your Android apps.
Redditors ask, Cybernews answers: Can you really “deGoogle” your Android?
Step-by-step guide to Android privacy. Cybernews provides tips on how to stop tracking, limit Google data collection, deGoogle Samsung devices, and reduce app surveillance.
I Decompiled the White House's New App
The official White House Android app has a cookie/paywall bypass injector, tracks your GPS every 4.5 minutes, and loads JavaScript from some guy's GitHub Pages.
A new era for choice and openness
News and insights on the Android platform, developer tools, and events.
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Facebook will shut down its spyware VPN app Onavo | TechCrunch
Facebook will end its unpaid market research programs and proactively take its Onavo VPN app off the Google Play store in the wake of backlash following
I'm switching my phone from Android to Linux.
Since Android is becoming increasingly more locked down and slopped, I'm jumping ship.
Building an Android app in AI Studio
What We Talk About When We Talk About Sideloading | F-Droid - Free and Open Source Android App Repository
We recently published a blog post with our reaction to the new Google Developer Program and how it impacts your freedom to use the devices that you own in th...
Apple revokes Facebook’s developer certificate over data-snooping app—Google could be next
Both bypassed the App Store to distribute their data-collection apps to users.
