Google recently announced several key policy changes for Android app developers that will improve the security of users, Google Play, and the apps offered by the service. These new developer requirements will take effect between May 11 and November 1, 2022, giving developers enough time to adapt to the new changes.
Among these key policy changes, the most important ones related to cybersecurity and fraud include
- NEW API LEVEL TARGET REQUIREMENTS
- LOAN APPLICATIONS WITH AN ANNUAL INTEREST RATE (APR) OF 36% OR MORE ARE PROHIBITED.
Abuse of the Accessibility API is prohibited
- Make new policy changes to the permissions to install packages from external sources
NEW API-LEVEL TARGETS
As of November 1, 2022, all newly published/published applications must target android API levels released within one year of the latest major Android release. Apps that fail to comply with this requirement will be rejected for inclusion on the Play Store.
The change is intended to force app developers to adopt stricter API policies that are the basis for newer Android versions, often better permission management and revocation, notification anti-hijacking, data privacy enhancements, phishing detection, splash screen restrictions, and more.
Splash screen restrictions and others
As Google explains in a blog post about the new policy: “Users with the latest devices or those who have fully caught up with Android updates expect to realize the full potential of all the privacy and security protections offered by the Android system”. Application developers who need more time to migrate to more of their current API level can apply for an extension of six months, although this is not guaranteed to apply to everyone.