F-Droid warns Google’s new sideloading restrictions could jeopardize open-source Android ecosystem

F-Droid has issued a warning that Google’s upcoming developer verification program and stricter sideloading rules threaten the viability of its open‑source Android app repository. The company says the plan would require independent developers to register and possibly pay fees, undermining free distribution of apps. F-Droid is urging regulators in the United States and Europe to scrutinize the changes, citing recent antitrust losses for Google and the need to protect user choice under the Digital Markets Act. The pilot verification program is set to launch soon, with unverified apps slated for restriction in select markets within a year. Ler mais