Publishing on Zapstore should be even easier

Some plans for 2026, if all goes well

Small wins for alternative Android stores? Google reacted to the pushback to their new developer registration rules announced back in August 2025 and has decided to ease some of the constraints: > The company also announced that it is developing a "new advanced flow" for experienced users with a higher risk tolerance who wish to sideload unverified apps. This new system will provide warnings about the associated risks but will ultimately allow users to make their own choices. If this is the case, Zapstore will offer hand-holding via the UI to users running stock Android, in order for them to unblock their devices.

BleepingComputer

Google backpedals on new Android developer registration rules

Google is backpedaling on its decision to introduce new identity verification rules for all developers, stating that it will also introduce account...

On the other hand, Android 17's "Registered App Stores" feature (as part of a legal settlement with Epic Games) may give a chance to Zapstore and other alternative stores. It is unclear whether developer registration rules will also apply to apps distributed via this mechanism.

Android Authority

Here's a look at how Android 17 will make alternative app stores easier to use

To settle its lawsuit with Epic, Google will make alternative app stores easier to use in Android 17. Here's what that might look like.

Very basic feature for now but tied to versions, you can sign in with your browser extension and start leaving your opinions View quoted note →

Added comments to the website (soon in the new app!)

Designing the new "certificate mismatch" flow: GM!

Like @Zapstore for app distribution. Which would have no social layer if it wasn't for the twitter clones. View quoted note →