developer guidelines Archives

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Google will verify Android developers distributing apps outside the Play store

Android developers distributing applications through third-party app stores will be required to undergo identity verification by Google starting in September 2026 in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a global rollout expected in 2027. Developers must submit personal information, including legal name, address, email, and phone number, and may need to provide a government-issued ID. This change primarily affects developers outside the Google Play Store, as identity verification is already standard for those using it. Google aims to enhance security and reduce malware risks through this initiative. The company plans to create a separate Android developer console for non-commercial developers, imposing restrictions on apps and installations. Google is inviting developers to sign up for early access to the new rules and provide feedback before the official launch.

AppWizard

May 21, 2025

Android Auto update brings movies, web browsing to your car

Google has expanded Android Auto by fully integrating weather applications, allowing developers to create and publish weather apps without additional approvals, provided they follow Google's quality guidelines. This change follows a revision to Google's developer guidelines in December 2024, which addressed the inclusion of weather apps in automotive environments. Users can expect a wider range of weather-related features in Android Auto.

AppWizard

August 15, 2024

Valve issues new rules outlawing links in Steam page descriptions, hopefully bringing an end to the plague of demos pretending they’re ‘prologue games’

Valve has updated its guidelines for game store page descriptions, effective in early September. The new rules prohibit developers from including links to other websites or Steam game listings in most sections of their store pages, aiming to reduce clutter and enhance user experience. This change addresses concerns that store pages have become overly promotional for other titles. Developers are encouraged to use features like bundles and franchises for related product promotion. Additionally, previous updates in July allowed for dedicated store pages for demos without extra fees, clarifying the distinction between demos and full games. Valve will implement an automatic detection system to identify and hide non-compliant links on store pages.