Google may block Russian apps on Android

Google's new developer verification system may restrict the installation of Russian apps on Android devices, raising concerns in Russia's Ministry of Digital Development, which warns of potential risks despite the company not having announced any official intentions.

Consensus

• Google is implementing a mandatory developer verification system for Android apps.
• The verification system will affect all Android devices with Google services, including those outside China.
• The change will apply to apps installed from any source, including Google Play, third-party app stores, and APK files.
• The system will require developers to verify their identity or company details with Google.
• Users will need to go through additional steps to install apps from unverified developers.
• The new rules are being rolled out in phases, starting with Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand on September 30.
• The full rollout is expected by 2027 for other countries.
• The Ministry of Digital Development of Russia is assessing the risks and preparing mitigation proposals.
• The system is intended to combat malicious software.
• Russian apps may be affected if their developers are not verified by Google.

Points of divergence

• The Ministry of Digital Development stated that the scenario of blocking Russian apps is only a possible risk, not a public intention of Google. — tg_tvrain
• Google removed nearly the entire VK holding ecosystem from Google Play after EU sanctions against VK and Max in July. — thebell
• Users must wait 24 hours after enabling developer mode and reconfirm their identity to install unverified apps. — kommerstant
• The verification process will make direct APK installation more difficult, requiring additional procedures. — tg_moscash

Coverage (5 sources)

• Google may soon limit installation of Russian apps, Ministry of Digital Development says — Дождь (Telegram)
• Shadaev admitted that Russian apps may not be installable on Android — The Bell
• Google may complicate installation of Russian apps on Android — Ministry of Digital Development — Московский кэш
• Shadaev: Google verification may hinder installation of Russian applications — Коммерсантъ
• New Google verification system may hinder installation of Russian apps on Android, Shadaev claims. — РИА Новости (Telegram)

Key entities

• Google
• Maxut Shadaev
• Ministry of Digital Development
• RBC
• Ministry of Digital Development
• Ministry of Digital Development
• Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media Company

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