developer accountability Archives

AppWizard

August 29, 2025

Google to make developer verification mandatory on Android

Google will implement mandatory identity verification for all Android app developers, starting in September 2026 in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with early access for registrations beginning this October. This initiative aims to combat the rising threat of malicious applications targeting users' financial data. The requirement will apply to all developers, including those not publishing on the Play Store, to enhance accountability and reduce the distribution of harmful apps. Google is also developing a new Android developer console for those distributing apps outside of the Play Store and has introduced data privacy labels to inform users about data collection practices.

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Google to block sideloading of apps from unverified developers on Android devices from next year: All you need to know

Google will implement a developer verification program for Android app installations starting next year, requiring all developers to be verified by Google to install apps on certified Android devices. This new requirement extends to third-party app developers and will apply to smartphones with pre-installed Google Services, excluding custom ROMs and certain Chinese devices. Developers distributing apps outside the Play Store must register on a new Android Developer Console for verification. Testing begins in October, with access for all developers by March 2026, and the rollout starts in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026, potentially expanding globally in 2027. Google cites internal data showing sideloaded apps pose a significantly higher risk of malware and aims to establish developer identity to reduce this risk. The changes may also be influenced by a recent antitrust ruling related to third-party app stores.

AppWizard

May 16, 2025

Stellar Blade’s Upcoming PC Version Gets Criticized by Fans

The gaming community has shifted its focus from Shift Up, the developer of Stellar Blade, to Sony, the game's publisher, due to issues surrounding the game. This shift parallels last year's backlash against Sony during the launch of Helldivers II, where player discontent arose from the mandatory inclusion of PSN. The community is questioning the extent of Sony's responsibility for the current issues with Stellar Blade, and there is less than a month for the team to address these concerns. The situation could significantly impact the goodwill that Stellar Blade has garnered since its launch. The dialogue about publisher influence in game development is becoming increasingly relevant as the relationship between developers, publishers, and players remains complex.