Google Sets September Date for Android Developer Verification
The change pairs a device‑level verifier with new developer APIs to curb anonymous malicious apps while keeping a controlled sideloading option.
Overview
- Google confirmed Thursday that developer verification will be required for participating Android app stores for users in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand starting September 30, 2026.
- A new system service called Android Developer Verifier will be auto‑installed on most Android 8+ devices to check whether an app is registered to a verified developer before installation.
- Millions of apps have already been registered since the March launch, and seven partner stores including Google Play, Samsung Galaxy Store, Xiaomi GetApps, Honor, OPPO/OPlus, vivo, and Transsion will be covered in the initial rollout.
- Google is releasing developer tools over the summer including the Android Developer ID Status API and an Android Developer Console API for bulk registration and CI/CD integration, plus a limited distribution account for students and hobbyists to share apps to up to 20 devices without an ID or fee.
- Unverified apps remain installable through a secured in‑device ‘advanced flow’ with extra checks or via adb, and Google plans to expand the verification requirement globally to certified Android devices in 2027 after partner feedback.