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Possible to avoid Google's future open source ban on Android devices?
(m.economictimes.com)
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this post was submitted on 28 Nov 2025
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Privacy
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They reversed course, so it's not an immediate issue.
But to answer your question, they would have provided an OS update to only allows app installations from verified developers, no matter the source.
To get verified developers have to submit identification to Google and go through a Google process.
So it wouldn't matter if the install source was a third-party repo, or Google Play, the system would not have installed any applications not signed by a Google authorized certificate.
That becomes very problematic because it gives Google the ability to restrict applications outside of the Google Play Store ecosystem.
They were copying Apple's playbook from the EU wherein Apple was legally mandated to allow third-party app stores, and in response Apple required all apps to be signed by an Apple verified developer certificate, no matter the repo.
And wouldn't you know it, Apple either revoked or would not provide certificates to developers of apps Apple didn't like, such as BitTorrent clients.
Right, then I'll just stay on my current build, being careful not to flash an OS update ๐
But in all seriousness, couldn't one manage without OS updates - relying on only proper cyber hygiene and opsec - until a more viable solution comes up? ๐ค
That's been my plan. I just replaced all my android devices with new (to me) devices which are all unlocked, flashed/degoogled and rooted.
I should be good for 5+ years. Hopefully by then the community has come up with a solution to whatever bullshit google has done.