The announcement addresses recent concerns around Android app development, including a fight over alternate in-app payment systems and difficulties for businesses moving online because of COVID-19.
Android users can already install apps through third-party stores like Samsung’s Galaxy Store. Google says that in response to developer feedback, it’s adding features to next year’s Android 12 release that will “make it even easier for people to use other app stores on their devices while being careful not to compromise the safety measures Android has in place.” It will release more details on these changes in the future.
It will also be up to 3rd party app stores to get their game together though in terms of quality control. I’m still hoping we see an emerging independent app store but that will require resources to operate. At least there is still choice.
See Google says Android 12 will make using third-party app stores easier
We’ll hear more about the changes later.