Google Introduces New Program for Registered App Stores on Android

Google has introduced a new program for registered app stores on its Android platform, as part of efforts to simplify the process of running an app ecosystem.

The Registered App Stores program is a voluntary initiative that will provide preferential treatment to participating stores, allowing users to install apps with just one click and enabling silent updates in the background. This streamlined experience is similar to what users enjoy within Google Play.

In March this year, Google announced its intention to launch the Registered App Stores program, aiming to give third-party app stores a more efficient way to reach users while maintaining the safety and security of the Android ecosystem. Eligible app stores outside the US can now apply for registration ahead of the new installation experience being rolled out later in the year.

Google's decision to introduce this program comes after the company lost its antitrust case with Epic Games, which led to changes in how app stores operate within Google Play. As a result, international users will benefit from the Registered App Stores program, while US users have access to alternative app stores inside Google Play due to court orders.

App store owners interested in joining the Registered App Stores program can now submit their applications, with support for participating stores expected to roll out on some Android devices later this year.

The Registered App Stores program is a significant shift in Google's approach to app distribution on Android devices. Initially intended as a backup plan following a court ruling, the program now takes center stage after Google and Epic Games reached an agreement that gave Google more control over the process.

As part of this deal, third-party stores will be allowed to operate independently within Google Play, rather than being hosted by the tech giant itself. This change is aimed at providing users with greater flexibility in choosing where they download apps from. However, this arrangement won't apply in the US, where Google Play will still serve as the primary destination for alternative app stores.

For international users, third-party stores can now enroll in the Registered App Stores program, which requires them to adhere to a set of guidelines and security measures. This includes protecting intellectual property, removing illegal content, and publishing clear policies on user and developer data privacy.

To ensure compliance with these requirements, store operators must provide documentation in English and upload copies of all their apps as part of the enrollment process. This move aims to maintain trust and safety standards across participating stores, which will be crucial for users who opt to download apps from outside Google Play.

The program's requirements also emphasize ongoing security measures to prevent malware from gaining access to Android devices through these third-party stores. By doing so, Google seeks to mitigate potential risks associated with hosting multiple app stores on its platform.

As the application process is now open, store operators interested in joining the international Registered App Stores program can begin reviewing the guidelines and submitting their applications. With support for participating stores expected to roll out on some Android devices later this year, users may soon have more options when it comes to downloading apps from third-party sources.

The Android Registered App Stores program is now accepting applications from third-party app stores. To participate, a store must pay an annual fee of $10,000, which covers the additional support required to run the program according to Google.

Google has announced that it will provide support for the program in dozens of countries outside of the US and Europe, but users in these regions may face challenges due to slower device updates. The program is set to launch on December 1, 2026, and will only work on devices running the latest builds of Android 17.

Support for the program will start with Android 17 QPR2, which is expected to be rolled out soon on Pixel phones in supported regions. However, many Android devices in these countries may not receive updates compatible with the Registered App Stores program due to their slower update cycles.

The launch of the Android Registered App Stores program marks a significant development for third-party app stores seeking to offer users more options when downloading apps from outside the Google Play Store.