Google begins certifying Registered App Stores for Android outside US

Google has opened applications for its Android Registered App Stores program, which will give approved third-party app stores preferential treatment on Android outside the United States. Stores accepted into the program will be able to offer one-click app installs and silent background updates, according to Google. Support will roll out to some Android devices later this year, and the program goes live on December 1.

Requirements and costs

Store operators must adhere to requirements covering intellectual property protection, removal of illegal content, and privacy policies for users and developers. They must also provide documentation in English and upload copies of all their apps as part of the application process. Participation costs $10,000 per year, payable before Google reviews an application. Google says the fee covers additional support needed to run the program, and there may be additional review fees if Google detects a malware problem.

Background

The program followed Google's loss in the Epic Games antitrust case, which brought remedies including third-party billing and app catalog sharing. Google and Epic attempted a settlement that would have used Registered App Stores as a replacement for hosting stores in Google Play, but withdrew it after the court signaled it would not be approved. Registered App Stores are still happening, but they will not be supported in the US, where alternative stores can be accessed through Google Play. So far, Aptoide remains the only alternative store listed there.

Rollout limits

Google plans to roll out support in dozens of nations, including most of the world outside the US and Europe. The program will only work on Android devices running the latest builds of Android 17, starting with Android 17 QPR2, which is expected to arrive on Pixel phones in the coming weeks. Google says it does not sell Pixel phones in most supported regions, and many devices in those places may never receive a compatible update.

Sources: Ars Technica