Google cracks down! APKs, ROMs, and Emulators banned — is Android freedom over?
m.economictimes.com
Google is implementing a significant policy shift, banning unverified APKs, ROMs, and certain emulators on certified Android devices starting in 2026. This move, aimed at enhancing security and combating malware, will restrict app distribution to verified developers. Critics argue this move curtails Android's famed openness, potentially impacting custom ROMs and retro gaming enthusiasts.

If I am already using a rooted but proprietary smartphone (Samsung Galaxy S23), downloading my apps from other sources than Google Play, how would Google be able to control what I do with it? If necessary, I could just stay on my current OS build as well. All in all, while politically and philosophically, Google’s new policy is bad, I don’t feel threatened by it with my current understand of the situation and technology…

  • INeedMana@piefed.zipEnglish
    10·
    4 hours ago

    They reversed course, so it’s not an immediate issue.

    I’m not convinced yet

    Some article as I can’t find my Xitter password to see the source

    designed an “advanced flow” for installing unverified apps. This new system is specifically intended for developers and power users who have a higher risk tolerance and want the ability to download unverified apps.

    It is not a casual toggle. The advanced flow is built to resist exploitation. The company emphasizes that the flow is designed to resist coercion, ensuring users aren’t tricked into bypassing safety checks under pressure from scammers. Social engineering often walks victims through dismissing every warning on screen, so Google is adding friction that fights back.

    That can very well mean we’ll be compiling everything by hand and sending it via USB app by app

    • circuscritic@lemmy.ca
      3·
      4 hours ago

      I don’t necessarily disagree, but the fact they walked back the original policy because it was so unpopular leads me to believe they are trying to save face by implementing a PITA way of enabling unknown sources, such as through ADB.

      The reason why I suspect that is because even with the original policy change, they were still going to allow unsigned apps to be installed via ADB.

      But I guess we’ll just have to wait and find out.

      • INeedMana@piefed.zipEnglish
        3·
        4 hours ago

        I think they got afraid such strict policy would put wind in the sails of Linux Phone initiatives

        But I might be jaded