Google Play policy update (July 15, 2026): phone verification via READ_CALL_LOG is out, and app registration is now a hard requirement
Google’s July 15 policy announcement has two practical ‘don’t get removed’ items: (1) you can no longer justify READ_CALL_LOG for account verification via phone call, and (2) you must register your Play apps in Play Console (including apps you distribute outside Play, if you want installs on certified devices). It also clarifies that User Data rules apply to third-party AI integrations.
