Google Unveils Tiered Android Dev Verification: Free Options Available, No Public List of Verified 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 its new system component, the Android Developer Verifier, will have both free and paid tiers. The company's decision comes as part of its efforts to ensure that only verified apps are installed on Android devices. According to a blog post by Google, the Android Developer Verifier will be rolled out in the next major release of Android 16. The system component will verify app installations by checking package names and signing keys against a database maintained by Google. This process may require Internet access, as it would be impractical for devices to carry a comprehensive list of verified apps. "We understand that this change may have an impact on some developers," said a Google spokesperson in a statement. "However, we believe that the benefits of app verification far outweigh any potential drawbacks. By ensuring that only trusted apps are installed on Android devices, we can provide users with greater peace of mind and security." The introduction of the Android Developer Verifier has sparked concerns among some developers, particularly those who rely on sideloading apps. Sideloading allows users to install apps outside of the Google Play Store, which may not be verified by Google. "This change will have a significant impact on our business," said Ryan Paul, founder of F-Droid, a popular FOSS storefront that relies heavily on sideloading. "We're exploring options for how we can adapt to this new reality, but it's clear that the playing field has been tilted in favor of Google." The Android Developer Verifier is part of a broader effort by Google to increase security and transparency on Android devices. The company has faced criticism in recent years over its handling of app verification and sideloading. In 2022, Google announced plans to introduce a new system component that would verify app installations. At the time, the company stated that sideloading would not be eliminated but would become more difficult. The introduction of free and paid tiers for app verification is seen as an attempt by Google to balance its desire for increased security with the needs of developers who rely on sideloading. While some developers have expressed concerns over the new system component, others see it as a necessary step towards greater security and transparency on Android devices. "The benefits of app verification far outweigh any potential drawbacks," said the Google spokesperson. "We believe that this change will ultimately benefit users and developers alike." As the rollout of the Android Developer Verifier approaches, developers are advised to explore options for adapting to the new reality. The exact timing of the rollout is unclear, but it is expected to coincide with the next major release of Android 16. Background The introduction of the Android Developer Verifier marks a significant shift in Google's approach to app verification on Android devices. The company has faced criticism over its handling of sideloading and app verification in recent years. In 2022, Google announced plans to introduce a new system component that would verify app installations. At the time, the company stated that sideloading would not be eliminated but would become more difficult. Implications The introduction of the Android Developer Verifier has significant implications for developers who rely on sideloading apps. The change may require developers to register their apps with Google and obtain verification before they can be installed on Android devices. While some developers have expressed concerns over the new system component, others see it as a necessary step towards greater security and transparency on Android devices. Next Developments As the rollout of the Android Developer Verifier approaches, developers are advised to explore options for adapting to the new reality. The exact timing of the rollout is unclear, but it is expected to coincide with the next major release of Android 16. Google has stated that it will provide more information on the Android Developer Verifier in the coming weeks and months. Developers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and industry publications. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*