In a move to improve user security and privacy, Google is implementing new Play Store policies to prevent third-party apps from using the Accessibility API.
In a move to improve user security and privacy, Google is implementing new Play Store policies to prevent third-party apps from using the Accessibility API.
The changes and updates to its developer policies include Android’s availability options to stop audio recording of long distance calls, which is a popular feature among Android users.
According to GSM Arena, these changes are in the direction of improved privacy and security, as laws for recording calls around the world vary a lot. However, system and pre-installed apps that are already allowed to press the Accessibility API will not be affected by the change. “The accessibility API is not designed and can not be requested for remote call audio recording,” reads a clause from the updated Play Store policies.
Given the privacy and security of users, it is speculated that a major reason may also be the different laws for recording calls in different countries. Previously, it was Apple’s iPhone that did not offer its users the option of built-in call recording.
If reports are to be believed, this change will only apply to third-party apps in the Play Store that specifically use the Accessibility API to enable call recording. The Google Phone app, which offers built-in call recording, is exempt from the change.