Google opens one-tap installs and background updates to approved Android stores outside the US

Approved stores gain faster installs, but only on newer Android versions in supported countries and under ongoing malware screening.

Google will let Android app stores in its Registered App Stores program push one-tap installs and background updates without the usual per-install confirmation, starting December 1. The features apply only on devices running Android 17 QPR2 or later, and only in supported countries, which exclude the US. To qualify, a store must pass identity checks and submit its full catalog, along with each new app and update, for ongoing malware scanning. Approved stores also pay a $10,000 yearly fee, and Google charges extra screening fees if more than 1% of install attempts or 2% of a store's apps prove potentially harmful over 30 days. Stores still need explicit user consent for each install and must show visible notifications for large or background installs, and IT administrators can block registered stores on managed devices.