[German]In light of the large number of harmful Android apps, Google is taking drastic measures for the future. All developers of Android apps must identify themselves to Google if they want their apps to continue running on certified Android devices.
Google announced this step in the article A new layer of security for certified Android devices, effective August 25, 2025. Starting next year, Android will require all apps to be registered by verified developers in order for them to be installed by users on certified Android devices. This is intended to make it much more difficult for malicious actors to quickly distribute another malicious app after a version has been deleted by Google.
Google wants to verify who the developer is, but not the content of their app or its origin. This change will initially be introduced in a few select countries that are particularly affected by this type of fraudulent app scam, which often originates from repeat offenders.
Google will develop a new Android Developer Console specifically for developers who only distribute their apps outside of Google Play. Developers can easily complete their verification through this Developer Console.
- October 2025: Early access to this program begins. Invitations will be sent out gradually.
- March 2026: Review opens to all developers.
- September 2026: These requirements take effect in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. At this time, every app installed on a certified Android device in these regions must be registered by a verified developer.
- 2027 and beyond: These requirements continue to be rolled out globally.
