Android Team Outlines Changes for App Developers to Increase Platform Security, Performance

In a blog post this week, the Android Developers team has outlined upcoming security changes that will affect not only those who create and publish applications, but those that use them on the Android OS.

As the Android team explains, “We relentlessly focus on security and performance to ensure everyone has a positive experience discovering and installing apps and games.” The below listed changes are aimed directly at continuing that goal of focusing on “security and performance.” While users won’t specifically see these changes with their own eyes, just know that things on the back end of Android are getting handled with care.

So, without further ado, here are the changes.

Upcoming Changes

• In the second half of 2018, Play will require that new apps and app updates target a recent Android API level. This will be required for new apps in August 2018, and for updates to existing apps in November 2018. This is to ensure apps are built on the latest APIs optimized for security and performance.
• In August 2019, Play will require that new apps and app updates with native libraries provide 64-bit versions in addition to their 32-bit versions.
• Additionally, in early 2018, Play will start adding a small amount of security metadata on top of each APK to further verify app authenticity. You do not need to take any action for this change.

Like I said, general users won’t need to worry about any of this. If you’re an app developer, though, make sure to follow these new requirements to ensure your app continues to be offered on Google Play for everyone to download.

// Android Developers