FOSS apps and google ID verification

Graphuser1234

Im against ID verification and i had just bought a pixel to learn/develop android apps so this is concerning.

Ive read a couple of threads here saying its only going to affect apps that go on googles play store. But going with that logic why would fdroid make it a big deal and why would some apps stop developing when they can just continue developing apps for fdroid?

Probably9857

Graphuser1234

It's not just about listing apps in the Play Store. It would prevent (or at least make it difficult) to install apps from any source if the app developer is not "approved".

They are concerned that their apps will no longer be available for the vast majority of Android users.

All of the above is referring to Google-certified OSs only.

Graphuser1234

Probably9857

So then if i were developing apps solely for GrapheneOS or other open source OS, i wouldnt have to worry about having to verify my ID since i wouldnt be using play store?

Probably9857

Graphuser1234

Correct.

But again, it is not only about Play Store.

If a stock OS user downloaded an .apk from your website, they still wouldn't be able to install it (worst-case), or they would have click through some scary warnings (best-case).

Graphuser1234

Probably9857 damn thats really shitty.

i understand now thanks for your responses!

Sagebath

If you're a good developer, then don't let that scare you away. Just explain to users what the warning is they're going to receive and why it sounds overly scary. If you tell them ahead of time, you'll have a much higher success rate.

Graphuser1234

Sagebath

I agree itll be a matter of informing the users

Only downside is that many people who dont like to take extra steps will be missing out on FOSS apps, let alone experience the principles that FOSS has to offer

wizoatk

Previous discussion:

Android Developer Verification: Are we screwed? (no, doesn't apply to GOS)
#26337

Obtanium and Google's new developer-ID requirement:
#29710

Android app lockdown
#32033

Android app development, what next?
#32215

f-droid is under threat?
#32284