Google cracks down! APKs, ROMs, and Emulators banned — is Android freedom over?
m.economictimes.com
Google is implementing a significant policy shift, banning unverified APKs, ROMs, and certain emulators on certified Android devices starting in 2026. This move, aimed at enhancing security and combating malware, will restrict app distribution to verified developers. Critics argue this move curtails Android's famed openness, potentially impacting custom ROMs and retro gaming enthusiasts.

If I am already using a rooted but proprietary smartphone (Samsung Galaxy S23), downloading my apps from other sources than Google Play, how would Google be able to control what I do with it? If necessary, I could just stay on my current OS build as well. All in all, while politically and philosophically, Google’s new policy is bad, I don’t feel threatened by it with my current understand of the situation and technology…

  • emotional_soup_88@programming.devOPEnglish
    2·
    7 hours ago

    Right, then I’ll just stay on my current build, being careful not to flash an OS update 😈

    But in all seriousness, couldn’t one manage without OS updates - relying on only proper cyber hygiene and opsec - until a more viable solution comes up? 🤔

    • Sir_Kevin@lemmy.dbzer0.comEnglish
      4·
      6 hours ago

      couldn’t one manage without OS updates - relying on only proper cyber hygiene and opsec - until a more viable solution comes up?

      That’s been my plan. I just replaced all my android devices with new (to me) devices which are all unlocked, flashed/degoogled and rooted.

      I should be good for 5+ years. Hopefully by then the community has come up with a solution to whatever bullshit google has done.