Google is set to implement a new update to its developer policies on the Play Store, effectively prohibiting applications from providing call recording features to Android users.

Policy Implementation

As per a Reddit user’s post, a revised Play Store policy, slated to take effect from May 11, will restrict third-party apps from recording calls on Android devices.

Historical Context

This isn’t the first instance of Google’s crackdown on call recording. With the rollout of Android 10, Google completely eliminated call recording functionality from its devices, citing privacy and security concerns. Additionally, discrepancies in call recording laws across different countries may have contributed to this decision.

Subsequently, various third-party apps such as TrueCaller and ACR Phone resorted to utilizing the Accessibility API for call recording. However, Google has now clamped down on this practice, declaring that the Accessibility API cannot be utilized for remote call audio recording.

Google’s Statement

Google explicitly stated on its support page that the Accessibility API is not intended for, nor can it be requested for, remote call audio recording purposes. Furthermore, Google emphasized that the use of the Accessibility API must be duly documented in the app’s Google Play listing.

Impact on Third-party Apps

This policy revision significantly impacts third-party apps’ ability to leverage the Accessibility API for call recording functionalities. It’s worth noting that this policy change does not affect the native call recording capabilities present in devices from manufacturers like Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and others, which allow call recording using the built-in phone app.

Clarification from Google

In a webinar, Google clarified that default dialer apps are exempt from this policy change. Apps that serve as the default dialer on a device and are pre-loaded do not require accessibility capabilities to access the incoming audio stream, thus remaining compliant with the updated policy.

In conclusion, Google’s forthcoming policy update marks a significant shift in its stance on call recording apps, aimed at enhancing privacy and security measures for Android users.