Google has opened applications for its Android Registered App Stores program, which will go live on December 1 and give accepted third-party storefronts preferential treatment on the platform. The program is open to eligible app stores outside the US. Under the program, users of approved stores will be able to install apps with a single click, similar to the Play Store experience, and those stores will be allowed to update apps silently in the background the way Google's store does.
A Google spokesperson said the company announced the program in March to give third-party app stores a more streamlined way to reach users while maintaining the safety and security of the Android ecosystem. The spokesperson said eligible app stores outside the US can now apply to register ahead of the new simplified installation experience rolling out to users later this year. Those operating Android app storefronts who want to be included in the international program can review it and begin the enrollment process.
The program began as Google's backup plan. After losing its appeal of Judge James Donato's verdict, Google faced remedies including allowing third-party billing and sharing app catalogs with rival stores, and the court required Google to distribute third-party stores within Google Play. Google and Epic, having patched things up following the trial, tried to settle the case in a way that gave Google more control, with Registered App Stores intended to replace hosting stores in Google Play as long as they met a baseline level of trust and safety. The companies withdrew the settlement when the court signaled it would not be approved.
Registered App Stores are still moving forward on Android, but they will not be supported in the US. US users can go to Google Play for alternative stores, where Aptoide remains the only one listed so far. Participation costs $10,000 per year, and the fee must be paid before Google will review an application. Google says the fee covers the additional support needed to run the program, and additional review fees may apply if Google detects a store has a malware problem.
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, with support starting with Android 17 QPR2, which is expected to arrive on Pixel phones in the coming weeks. Google does not sell those devices in most of the supported regions, and devices people use in such places tend to receive updates much more slowly. A substantial number of Android devices in supported countries may never see an update compatible with the program.
More software news from TechManNews.
