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Google's New Android Developer Verifier Service is Here for Your...
AppWizard
March 30, 2026

Google’s New Android Developer Verifier Service is Here for Your…

Google has begun rolling out its Android developer verification system, requiring developers who distribute apps outside the Google Play Store to register and verify their identities. This affects primarily those using alternative distribution channels. A new Android Developer Verifier app will be integrated into Google System services settings starting in April 2026 to verify app associations with registered developers. The verification checks are expected to occur during the installation of sideloaded apps, with warnings for unverified developers. The rollout timeline includes: - April 2026: Android Developer Verifier available in Google System services settings. - June 2026: Early access for limited distribution accounts for students and hobbyists. - August 2026: Global launch of limited distribution accounts and advanced flow for power users. - September 30, 2026: Apps must be registered by verified developers to be installed on certified Android devices in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand; unregistered apps can still be sideloaded using ADB or the advanced flow. - 2027 and beyond: Global rollout of the requirement.
UK activist hits Valve with a $903 million lawsuit — claims Steam is abusing its market dominance and forcing UK consumers to pay too much for Steam games
AppWizard
January 27, 2026

UK activist hits Valve with a $903 million lawsuit — claims Steam is abusing its market dominance and forcing UK consumers to pay too much for Steam games

Vicki Shotbolt has initiated a lawsuit against Valve, seeking £656 million for alleged abuse of market dominance related to its Steam platform. The lawsuit claims that Valve restricts game sales on Steam, preventing developers from using alternative distribution channels, and enforces anti-steering provisions that limit in-game purchases to those who buy the base game through Steam. Shotbolt also argues that Valve's commission structure, which typically retains a 30% cut of revenue, is excessively high compared to the value provided. Valve's commission rates decrease for higher sales volumes, but the standard 30% aligns with industry norms, while the Epic Games Store charges a lower rate of 12%. Despite the lawsuit, Valve's Steam platform remains highly profitable, generating significant revenue per employee.
"Of course, you must be on Steam. But Steam isn't the entire world": CEO of game distribution company says yes, some PC gamers prefer "local" stores to Valve's mega-shop, and China is a huge factor
AppWizard
November 7, 2025

“Of course, you must be on Steam. But Steam isn’t the entire world”: CEO of game distribution company says yes, some PC gamers prefer “local” stores to Valve’s mega-shop, and China is a huge factor

Steam is a dominant platform in digital PC gaming, but there are emerging local platforms in regions like China, Eastern Europe, and Latin America that are gaining trust and loyalty among gamers. Vadim Andreev, CEO of Rokky, highlights that while Steam is essential, it does not encompass the entire gaming market. A survey shows that 72% of game developers view Steam as a monopoly, sparking discussions about its classification. Andreev emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative distribution channels for global revenue. Meanwhile, Microsoft and Xbox aim to expand their presence in the gaming market, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive distribution approach.
A Majority of Game Developers Believe Steam Has A Monopoly on PC Game Distribution
AppWizard
November 5, 2025

A Majority of Game Developers Believe Steam Has A Monopoly on PC Game Distribution

A whitepaper from Rokky, based on a survey of 306 game studio executives, reveals that 72% believe Steam has a monopoly on PC game distribution. Among the respondents, 48% have distributed games on the Epic Games Store and Xbox PC Store, while only 10% have used GOG and 8% have used itch.io. Nearly 25% view marketplaces and e-stores as part of the gray market, which they associate with a loss of control and revenue. Concerns exist about keys falling into gray market hands leading to regional pricing manipulation, but Rokky argues these fears may be unfounded. The report suggests that exploring alternative distribution strategies could help developers reduce reliance on Steam, despite challenges like discoverability and market saturation.
Google's registration requirement threatens F-Droid's survival
AppWizard
September 30, 2025

Google’s registration requirement threatens F-Droid’s survival

F-Droid warns that its survival is threatened by Google's new requirement for Android developers to register to distribute apps, which includes a registration fee and the submission of identity documents. This move may force independent developers into Google's ecosystem, limiting their reach. F-Droid argues that this decision is not about security but reflects a concentration of power, contrasting its transparent processes with the Play Store's history of hosting harmful apps. The changes could lead to the removal or lack of updates for thousands of apps on F-Droid, impacting users who value privacy and control. Google plans to launch a pilot program in October that will require developers to pay registration fees in US dollars, making apps that do not comply un-installable on certified devices. Initially, this will affect markets like Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a global rollout planned by 2027. F-Droid is seeking support to oppose the policy and preserve alternative distribution channels.
Apple добилась удаления торрент-клиента из сторонних магазинов приложений для iOS
TrendTechie
September 1, 2025

Apple добилась удаления торрент-клиента из сторонних магазинов приложений для iOS

iTorrent has been removed from AltStore PAL, an alternative app store for iOS users in the EU, following Apple's decision to disable the app's Alternative Distribution feature. This action prevents iTorrent from being released on any alternative app stores. iTorrent was first made available on AltStore PAL in the summer of 2024 and was removed a year later. AltStore PAL representatives are investigating the removal. Apple has not commented on the situation.
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