Here’s a look at how Android 17 will make alternative app stores easier to

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TL;DR

• As part of a settlement with Epic, Google is introducing support for “Registered App Stores” starting with Android 17.
• Certified third-party stores will utilize a “single store install screen” that automatically grants permission to install other apps.
• The agreement also prohibits device manufacturers from adding extra warning screens or barriers to block these store installations, prohibits Epic from bringing its Game Store to the Play Store, and ends the mudslinging between Epic and Google.

Last week, Epic and Google proposed a settlement that would end their legal dispute over Android app distribution. As part of the settlement, Google committed to making major changes to the Android OS, the Play Store, and its communications and licensing agreements with developers and OEMs. One of the most significant changes involves introducing support for “Registered App Stores” in Android 17.

A “Registered App Store” is a third-party app store that Google has certified as a legitimate platform for downloading Android apps. Any store that receives this certification will be eligible to use Android’s new “single store install screen” for installation. This new screen will use “neutral language” to inform users about the store they’re about to install and clarify which permissions it requires, such as the ability to install other apps.




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