Google is set to close aspects of Android's open ecosystem in September 2026, prompting a strong backlash from nearly 50 organizations fighting to preserve its openness.

• Developers will be required to register with Google, pay a fee, provide government ID, and submit private signing keys to distribute apps on certified devices.
• A coalition largely led by Keep Android Open argues this change will kill alternative app stores like F-Droid and create censorship chokepoints.
• Despite rumors of an "advanced flow" to bypass restrictions, the coalition claims internal findings suggest no such mechanism is being developed.