Digital Sovereignty Alert
Keep Android Open
Starting in 2027, a Google update will block any Android app whose developer hasn't registered with Google, paid a fee, and handed over government ID. Every app, every certified device, worldwide - not just the Play Store.
Why it matters
Your phone, their rules
Android was sold as open. This change applies retroactively to hardware you already own - only Google-approved software runs.
Open source at risk
Hobbyists, community projects, and app stores like F-Droid get frozen out. F-Droid calls it an "existential" threat.
A censorship lever
Tying apps to legal identity puts journalists, activists, and whistleblowers at the mercy of one company that routinely complies with government takedown demands.
The "escape hatch" is a trap door
Installing unverified apps means nine steps, Developer Mode, and a 24-hour wait - all run through Play Services, which Google can tighten or kill anytime.
What you can do
- Contact your regulators Antitrust and consumer regulators want to hear from people affected by this.
- Sign the petition Join over 100,000 people who have already spoken up.
- Install F-Droid Alternative app stores only survive if people actually use them.
- Read & share the open letter Signed by 70+ organizations including the EFF, FSF, Tor Project, Proton, and GrapheneOS.
- Tell Google directly Give feedback through their developer verification survey.
Developers: don't sign up for verification - the plan only works if developers comply. Consider adding the FreeDroidWarn library to warn your users.
Get the full story, FAQ, and the latest updates from the campaign.
Visit KeepAndroidOpen.org