Android verification is coming: Google confirms timeline and supported app stores

Google has revealed a refined schedule for its Android developer verification system, which will affect how apps are installed on devices worldwide. The company confirmed partnerships with several app stores: Google Play, Honor App Market, OPPO App Market, Samsung Galaxy Store, Transsion Palm Store, vivo V-Appstore, and Xiaomi GetApps.

Developers will gain access to two new APIs. The Android Developer ID Status API will check if a package name is already registered with Google. The Android Developer Console API will allow developers to register and manage app package names directly from their development environment.

This month, Google will deploy a new system service (com.google.android.verifier) on most certified devices running Android 8 or higher. Initially dormant in regions where verification is not yet mandatory, the service can block installation of unverified apps once activated.

In July, Google plans to release the developer APIs and begin testing for "limited distribution" accounts. This solution targets hobbyists who want to share apps with a small group (up to 20 devices). Limited accounts will not require a fee or government ID verification.

In August, the advanced flow will become available globally. This option lets users bypass verification, but it is intentionally cumbersome: users must navigate to a hidden menu, confirm risks multiple times, and wait 24 hours before completing the process.

September marks the start of mandatory verification checks in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Android devices in these countries will check verification status before installing apps. Google plans to expand verification to other regions gradually, aiming to make it a global device policy by 2027.