Open, less so

Over the past week, many Android FOSS apps installed from alternative stores have started displaying an alert saying something like:

"Google has announced that, starting in 2026/2027, all apps on certified Android devices will require the developer to submit personal identity details directly to Google.
Since the developers of this app do not agree to this requirement, this app will no longer work on certified Android devices after that time.
~FreeDroidWarn"

This effectively means that apps whose developers do not comply with these requirements may be blocked or restricted on certified Android devices. This is actually something we have known for a while, and it’s going to start in September in a few selected countries, then globally from 2027.

The issue is not only about developers.
Many independent and open-source developers may decide not to disclose their personal identity to Google, which could lead them to stop publishing or maintaining their apps.
As a result, end users could gradually lose access to a significant part of the Android ecosystem that exists outside the official stores.

For users like me, who have relied on Android's openness for years, this change feels particularly concerning.
I have always liked the possibility of installing all my favourite custom apps from F-Droid or alternative app stores.
What worries me most is not the fate of commercial apps. Those developers will simply comply with the new requirements.
The apps most at risk are the small independent projects maintained by volunteers, which are often the reason many users choose Android over more restrictive platforms.

There are still some possible workarounds, although they are not always practical.
Sadly, I can’t install an independent Android OS like GrapheneOS because, without Google services, many banking or digital identity apps would not work properly.

Since switching away from Google's ecosystem is not a practical option for me, I decided to support advocacy efforts instead.
I signed the Change.org petition, filled out the Google developer verification requirement form, and emailed the EU DMA team.

If you are also interested in this topic, I suggest reading the manifesto and taking action as well.
This is something I care about, and it’s not about Android versus Apple. The gap between the two ecosystems seems to be shrinking. I just hope platforms move toward more openness, not less.
I remember projects like Cydia showing that users do value that kind of freedom.