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
    41·
    30 days ago

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

    But I might be jaded

    • ScoffingLizard@lemmy.dbzer0.com
      2·
      3 days ago

      I think you’re more overly optimistic regarding the amount of concern and knowledge of the general public. I have never met a single person that cares about privacy and alternative phone issues, and I’ve been complaining nonstop.

      • INeedMana@piefed.zipEnglish
        2·
        2 days ago

        But the opposite would mean some point did make them go about their sense. And for me that is even more unrealistically optimistic

        Hence “I might be jaded”