developer rights

A campaign called "Keep Android Open" is advocating against Google's upcoming regulations that may limit users' ability to sideload applications on Android devices. The campaign is linked to a blog post on F-Droid, which encourages users to urge government regulators to intervene. The campaign's open letter expresses concerns that developers should retain the right to create and distribute software without corporate surveillance. Google plans to implement regulations requiring verification from developers for app installations on certified Android devices to reduce malware risks. Developers will need to submit an official ID, address, phone number, and a fee. F-Droid criticizes these requirements as harmful to consumer choice and third-party app distribution. It highlights that users should have the freedom to run any software on their devices. Google has stated that sideloading will remain a feature of Android and has introduced a special developer account for limited app distribution without ID verification or fees. The new requirements will initially be rolled out in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026, with plans to expand to other markets in 2027.