CyberHappenings logo

Track cybersecurity events as they unfold. Sourced timelines. Filter, sort, and browse. Fast, privacy‑respecting. No invasive ads, no tracking.

Google's Developer Verification Policy Threatens F-Droid

First reported
Last updated
1 unique sources, 1 articles

Summary

Hide ▲

Google's new Developer Verification policy, set to take effect in 2026, requires all Android developers to verify their identity. F-Droid, a third-party app store for free and open-source software, argues that this policy will force the project to shut down, as many open-source developers will refuse to provide identification details to Google. The policy aims to block malware installations from sideloaded apps, but F-Droid contends that it is actually a move to tighten control over the Android ecosystem. The new rules will prevent users from installing or updating apps from unverified developers, potentially denying access to a large number of trustworthy apps.

Timeline

  1. 01.10.2025 20:12 1 articles · 5h ago

    Google's Developer Verification Policy Announced

    In August 2025, Google announced plans to introduce a new Developer Verification requirement in 2026, which will block installations from unverified developers on certified Android devices. F-Droid has criticized the policy, arguing that it is not motivated by security concerns but by a desire to consolidate control over the Android ecosystem. The policy will prevent users from installing or updating apps from unverified developers, potentially denying access to a large number of trustworthy apps. Google has clarified that sideloading will still be possible for apps from verified developers and hobbyist developers distributing to a small number of devices.

    Show sources

Information Snippets