Google to remove apps that use Accessibility Services not aimed at disabled users from Play Store

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Google plans to remove all apps that do not comply with its “Permissions policy and Prominent Disclosure requirements,” the search giant announced. Some developers that are using a special API meant to be used to create apps for users with disabilities to make apps that have other purposes, have been contacted by Google and asked to make some changes to their apps.

Among the apps that are using this API for users with disabilities, you might have already heard about LastPass, Tasker or Network Monitor Mini, but there are other popular apps using it as well.

Developers make use of Google's API to add some functionality to their apps that have nothing to do with its initial purpose, such as overlay content, fill in text fields and so on. The reason Google doesn't want these apps to keep using the API is that they can potentially create a security risk once a user grants the right permissions.


According to Google, all apps that fail to meet its requirements within 30 days will be removed from Play Store. Another option for devs who are using the API is to remove any requests for accessibility services within their app.

Well, that's just fine and dandy, but what about those apps that are using the API for the right purpose – to help disabled people? Aren't those supposed to be exposed to the same security risks? If yes, why aren't they being removed as well?

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Update: We've received a statement from LastPass that states the changes imposed by Google will not affect users in any way. There's also a blog post where LastPass developers explain how they're working with Google "to ensure a long-term solution that meets user needs and their accessibility requirements." Check out the source link below for more details.

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