71 Groups Urge Google to Reconsider Android Verification Rules With 97 Days Left
Updated
Updated · UdaipurTimes.com · Jun 26
71 Groups Urge Google to Reconsider Android Verification Rules With 97 Days Left
1 articles · Updated · UdaipurTimes.com · Jun 26
Summary
Seventy-one organizations from 23 countries signed an open letter urging Google to rethink Android developer verification before the rollout starts in 97 days.
Google plans to require even off-Play Store developers on certified Android devices to verify identity, provide government ID, create a payments profile, register app IDs and signing keys, and pay a one-time fee.
More than 100,000 petition signatures back the "Keep Android Open" campaign, which says the rules would extend Google's control into direct APK downloads, open-source repositories, third-party stores and enterprise app distribution.
Groups including the EFF, FSF, Proton, F-Droid and Tor Project argue the policy would raise barriers for independent and privacy-focused developers, while Google says it will curb repeat malware distributors and improve accountability.
Google is introducing a new Android developer verification policy that requires all developers to verify their identity and register their apps, starting September 30, 2026. The rollout will begin in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a global expansion planned for 2027. To support this, Google is launching new APIs and tools, including the Android Developer Verifier system and updates to Android Studio. While Google says the policy will improve security and accountability, a global coalition of organizations has launched the 'Keep Android Open' campaign, warning that these changes could threaten Android’s openness, create barriers for independent developers, and increase centralization.