In 2022, Google introduced a more private media picker with Android 13, and later extended this feature to Android 4.4+ devices through Google Play Services.
Many apps adopted this new media picker, allowing users to select specific pictures and videos to share, granting only limited access to their media files.
However, not all Android apps have implemented the media picker, despite Google’s recommendations. Now, Google is taking a more assertive approach, enforcing a Play Store policy change that mandates app adoption of the media picker.
In October 2023, the company notified developers that starting in mid-2024, it would begin cracking down on apps unnecessarily requesting access to the READ_MEDIA_IMAGES and READ_MEDIA_VIDEO permissions to access media files.
By early 2025, only apps whose primary functions involve handling photos and videos—such as gallery apps or image editing software—will be permitted to use these permissions.
According to Google’s support page, examples of “one-time or infrequent use of photos or video files” include uploading a profile picture, an image for a playlist, or a photo of a check for banking purposes.
Such apps should not request READ_MEDIA_IMAGES or READ_MEDIA_VIDEO permissions and are required to use the media picker for a safer and more streamlined user experience.
At Google’s I/O 2024 event, the company outlined its plans to implement these policy changes starting in August 2024, but that deadline was missed.
However, the crackdown began on September 18, 2024, giving developers whose apps use these media permissions until October 31, 2024, to submit a declaration form confirming that their app qualifies for such permissions.
Developers also have the option to request an extension to meet compliance. If granted, they will have until January 22, 2025, to comply with the new rules.
Failure to submit the necessary declaration by the end of October will prevent developers from updating their apps.
If they still fail to comply by the extended deadline, their app will be removed from the Google Play Store. Only private and enterprise management apps are exempt from this policy.
While this policy shift represents a positive move toward better privacy and security, the Android file picker itself leaves much to be desired.
The current picker lacks features like search or filtering, which would significantly improve the user experience. Google may need to address these shortcomings as it pushes developers to adopt the tool.
