With Android 17: Google enables easy installation of alternative app stores

In early November Epic and Google had proposed a settlement, which could end their long-standing legal dispute over the distribution of Android apps. As part of the resolution of the disputes, Google committed to making significant changes to the Android ecosystem, the Play Store, and agreements with developers and manufacturers. One of the biggest changes for users will likely be the introduction of support for "registered app stores," which will occur with the release of Android 17, expected in mid-2026.

Through this opening, Google will allow third-party providers – and thus not just Epic – to offer alternative app stores directly via a website. These "registered app stores" must be certified by Google as a legitimate platform for downloading Android apps. The agreement is initially valid until June 30, 2032.

Registered app stores installable via website

Any store that receives certification will be authorized to use Android's new "Single Store Install Screen" for installation. According to the document, this new installation screen is intended to inform users in "neutral language" about the store they wish to install. It will also explain the required permissions and the ability to install other apps through it.

A design proposal attached to a court document visualizes how the installation and permission process for a registered store is intended to work. This also shows new details about its functionality: To install an alternative app store, such as the Epic Store in the future, users will access a platform's website and tap a "Download" button.

This action will open the installation screen for the store. Here, users will be asked if they "want to install this app store." On this screen, users will also be informed that the store is "registered with Android" and that it will be possible to "install and manage apps on your device" through the alternative store. It also states that the alternative platform will handle app ratings and updates.

Google has until the end of 2026

After installing the alternative store, users will be able to obtain all applications offered there similarly to how they would through the Play Store. The image shows a music player as an example. With this solution, Google seems to be making it easier for providers of such stores than Apple, although the iPhone manufacturer has already reduced the process from 15 to six steps. Not only Google itself, but also hardware partners must comply with the uniform installation process.

Google is expected to provide system-level support for alternative app stores with the next major Android version, i.e., Android 17, but no later than Quarterly Platform Release 2 (QPR2), which is expected at the end of 2026. The first developer preview for Android 17 is expected in a few days. At least, if Google follows the schedule of Android 16. The first developer preview of the current Android version was released around the end of November 2024.

Beyond app stores, the company is sticking to the rule that from autumn 2026 onwards only applications whose publishers have previously registered with Google and then signed the respective application will be installed on certified Android devices. After much criticism, Google relented somewhat: As the company wrote last week, there will be a sideloading solution for "experienced users", with which they can also install unverified apps.

(afl)