Google Opens Third-Party App Store Certification Outside US

Google has started accepting applications from third-party app stores to join its Registered App Stores program. Stores approved under this initiative will receive preferential treatment, allowing them to install applications with a single click and update them silently in the background. These features are available only on devices running Android 17 QPR2 or later in supported countries, which do not include the United States. Currently, users must enable a third-party store and confirm each installation and update individually.

To qualify, stores must pass identity checks and submit their full catalog for ongoing malware scanning. Participants must pay a $10,000 yearly fee before Google begins its review. Additional fees apply if more than 1% of install attempts or 2% of apps are found potentially harmful over a 30-day period. Stores failing to meet requirements can be removed from the program until issues are resolved.

The program was initially a backup plan following Google’s loss in the Epic Games antitrust case. It was announced in March alongside changes resolving disputes with Epic. In the US, a separate program for distributing third-party stores through Google Play has been in effect since July 22. Google plans to extend Android developer verification checks worldwide in 2027.