CodeHorizon Insights
Plain-language explainers on the platform changes that touch websites, Shopify stores, Chrome extensions and Android apps. Each one has animated diagrams, a checklist, and the source behind every fact.
Lead storyAndroid6 min read
Android now checks who built an app before it installs it
Since 30 September 2026, certified Android phones in four countries only install apps from verified developers. How it works, who must act and the API 36 rule.
Why it matters
- Certified Android 7+ devices in four countries now refuse the normal install of apps from unregistered packages, whether they come from Google Play, another store or a website.
- Google Play registers most apps for you. If you publish anywhere else, you register your package names in the new Android Developer Console.
The calendar
The dates behind the stories.
Every launch and deadline these stories cover, in order, with today marked. Each one links to the story that explains it.
- Shopify launches Agentic StorefrontsShopify
- Google adds more links to AI OverviewsSearch
- Chrome shows WebMCP at Google I/OWeb and AI
- Stricter Chrome Web Store data rulesChrome extensions
- Google Play updates must target Android 16Android
- Last Manifest V2 extensions removedChrome extensions
- Android checks developers in four countriesAndroid
- AI Mode links move higher, worldwideSearch
- TodayYou are here
- Last day of the API 36 extensionAndroid · Coming
- Developer verification goes worldwideAndroid · Coming
In this edition
More stories.
- WebMCP lets your website hand AI agents a proper set of tools WebMCP, in origin trial from Chrome 149, lets websites expose forms and actions as tools for AI agents. What it is, both APIs and how to try it today. Read the story
- Your next customer might be an AI agent. Here is what it reads in your store Shopify and Google's Universal Commerce Protocol lets AI agents search, build carts and check out. What it does, where it works and how to get your store ready. Read the story
- Manifest V2 is gone. This is what a Chrome extension looks like now Manifest V2 left the Chrome Web Store on 31 August 2026, a month after stricter data rules began. The new baseline for a Chrome extension people can trust. Read the story
- Google sends fewer clicks now. Here is how a business website should adapt Google Search referrals to news sites fell 40.2% in a year. What the AI Overviews data measures, what Google advises and what still earns a website the click. Read the story
For businesses
Reading is one thing. Shipping it is another.
Websites, Shopify stores, Chrome extensions and Android apps, built for the way the platforms work now.
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