Google Introduces Tiered Android Dev Verification: Free Options Available, No Public List of Developers

Google Confirms Android Dev Verification Will Have Free and Paid Tiers, No Public List of Developers In a move aimed at addressing concerns over app verification on Android devices, Google has announced that the new Android Developer Verifier system will have both free and paid tiers. The company also confirmed that there will be no public list of verified developers. According to a blog post and accompanying video, the Android Developer Verifier is a new system component that will be rolled out in the next major release of Android 16. This system will ensure that each app has a package name and signing keys registered with Google at the time of installation. However, this process may require Internet access and could potentially break popular FOSS storefronts like F-Droid. "We understand that developers have concerns about the new verification process," said a Google spokesperson in an interview. "We want to assure them that we're committed to making it as easy as possible for them to get verified, while also ensuring the security of our users." The Android Developer Verifier system will use a combination of cloud-based and local caching to verify app installations. This means that devices will not be able to carry a database of all verified apps, which could potentially lead to issues with offline access. Google's decision to introduce both free and paid tiers for the verification process has been met with mixed reactions from developers. "While we appreciate Google's efforts to make the verification process more accessible, we're concerned about the potential costs associated with the paid tier," said a spokesperson for the Open Source Initiative. The introduction of the Android Developer Verifier system is part of a broader effort by Google to increase security and transparency on its platform. The company has faced criticism in recent years over issues related to app verification and sideloading, which allows users to install apps outside of the official Google Play Store. In response to these concerns, Google announced plans to phase out sideloading in future versions of Android. However, the company has also emphasized that it will continue to support developers who want to offer their apps through alternative channels. The next major release of Android 16 is expected to be released later this year, with the Android Developer Verifier system rolling out shortly thereafter. Developers can expect more information on the verification process and associated costs in the coming months. Background: Google's decision to introduce a new app verification system has been met with concern from some developers who worry about the potential costs and complexity of the process. However, others see it as an opportunity to increase transparency and security on the platform. Implications: The introduction of the Android Developer Verifier system raises important questions about the role of cloud-based services in app verification and the potential impact on offline access. It also highlights the need for developers to adapt to changing requirements and regulations on the platform. Next Developments: Developers can expect more information on the verification process and associated costs in the coming months. Google has promised to provide regular updates on the rollout of the Android Developer Verifier system, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*