Google unveils new Android payment rules, finance app and mandatory app verification

Google announced that its Play Store commission structure will change on 30 June 2026, ending the flat 30 % fee. Smaller developers will pay a 10 % service fee, with an additional 5 % billing fee only when using Google Play Billing. The new model will first apply in the United States, United Kingdom and the European Economic Area, including Slovakia.

The company also re‑launched Google Finance as a dedicated Android app, integrating its Gemini AI. The app offers real‑time market data, AI‑generated insights, portfolio building tools and customizable briefings, and is available in multiple languages, including Czech.

In parallel, Google is tightening Android app security. From 30 September 2026, mandatory developer verification will be required for apps distributed through Google Play and partner stores such as Honor, OPPO, Samsung, Transsion, Vivo and Xiaomi. The first markets to enforce the rule are Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. New APIs will let developers check verification status and manage apps directly from development environments.