Google Says Developer Verification Makes Android Safer. Critics Say It Just Makes Android More Closed

Google's Developer Verification program, rolling out in September 2026 in select regions and globally from 2027, requires all app developers to register with verified real-world identities before their apps can run on certified Android devices. This applies to sideloaded APKs and third-party stores, not just the Play Store. Google frames it as a security measure to reduce malware by creating accountability, but critics argue it effectively kills open-source repositories like F-Droid and IzzyOnDroid, which cannot comply due to structural and philosophical incompatibilities. The 'Keep Android Open' initiative, backed by EFF, FSF, Tor Project, Proton, and others, is urging developers to boycott the early access program. The broader concern is that centralizing all app distribution under Google's identity system gives one corporation unprecedented control over what runs on billions of Android devices.