FOSSPicks

FOSSPicks

Article from Issue 307/2026
Author(s):

This month we explore the top FOSS, including the ultimate FTP client, a 6502 Assembly Environment, and open source levels for Doom.

An Android Identity Crisis

While Google pushes its Play store as the one-stop solution for Android apps, since 2010, F-Droid has offered an alternative repository of only free and open source apps. The server software itself is also open source, and users don't have to register an account to install software.

Unfortunately, F-Droid and other third-party stores may now be under siege due to Google's announcement that Android apps on certified devices must now be associated centrally with verified developers. This can involve paying a fee, uploading government identification, and potentially publishing their address publicly on app stores, so it's understandable why some programmers may be reluctant. The resulting backlash is being spearheaded at https://keepandroidopen.org/, which points out that Google shows no sign of backing down and that, as of September 2026, unregistered apps could be blocked on certified devices.

[...]

Use Express-Checkout link below to read the full article (PDF).

Buy Linux Magazine

Related content

  • FOSSPicks

    Nate explores some top FOSS tools, including the latest Gnome desktop, a slick 3D model viewer, LibreQuake, and a neat currency converter.

  • Pane Bonanza: 4Pane File Manager
  • FOSSPicks

    In between finding the hottest FOSS picks, Graham has rebuilt his BrewPi and is now brewing a strong winter ale. Hic.

  • Lutris

    If you frequently play games on Linux, you are accustomed to dealing with many different installers and configurations. Lutris can help simplify the process of setting up all your games.

  • FOSSPicks

    This month Graham looks at Neuronify, Undervolt GUI, Entropy Piano Tuner, Gnome Internet Radio Locator, Hatari, and more!

comments powered by Disqus