Google begins certifying Registered App Stores for Android, but not in the US

Registered App Stores are still happening on Android, but they won’t be supported in the US—you can go to Google Play for alternative stores stateside, but so far, Aptoide remains the only one listed. Those operating Android app storefronts who want to be included in the international program can now review the program and begin the enrollment process.

Strict requirements, narrow support

Any store hoping to get approval will have to adhere to a number of requirements, including protecting intellectual property, removing illegal content, and publishing a privacy policy for both users and developers. Google also requires several ongoing security measures to ensure the stores do not give malware easier access to Android devices. As part of the application process, store operators must provide documentation for all these points (in English) and upload copies of all their apps.

It costs $10,000 per year to participate in the Android Registered App Stores program, and that fee must be paid before Google will review the application. Google says this fee covers the additional support necessary to run the program. There may also be additional review fees if Google detects a store has a problem with malware.

Google plans to roll out support in dozens of nations, which includes most of the world outside of the US and Europe. The program goes live on December 1, 2026, but it will only work on Android devices running the latest builds of Android 17. Google says support will start with Android 17 QPR2, which is expected to arrive on Pixel phones in the coming weeks. Google doesn’t even sell those in most of the supported regions, and the devices people do use in such places tend to have much slower updates. A substantial number of Android devices in supported countries may never even see an update compatible with the Registered App Stores program.