Google Play Accessibility Services Policy Update: Tightening Controls for 2026
Jan 15, 2026
Izabela Pawlik
Google Play is introducing an update to its Accessibility Services policy. While the Accessibility API is a powerful tool designed to assist users with disabilities, its potential for misuse has led Google to implement much stricter oversight.
Accessibility Services Policy Changes: Summary
Our team compared current and preview versions of the Permissions and APIs that Access Sensitive Information policy which includes Accessibility API section (so you don’t have to) to find out one crucial change in the policy.
Policy Section | Current Policy | Updated Policy (Effective Jan 28, 2026) |
Accessibility API | The Accessibility API is not designed and cannot be requested for remote call audio recording. | Strict Limitation: The Accessibility API is not designed and cannot be requested for:
|
Examples of prohibited actions
If your app does any of the following using Accessibility, it is now policy-illegal:
AI that reads the screen and taps buttons for the use;
App that logs into other apps automatically;
Automation flows that navigate apps (open, click, submit);
LLM agent that books, buys, messages, or changes settings;
“Do it for me” assistants;
UI-driving RPA tools.
Accessibility API Update Deadline: January 28, 2026
If your app utilizes the AccessibilityService, you must prepare for a more rigorous review process before the January 28, 2026 enforcement date.
Additional Resources
Current Permissions and APIs that Access Sensitive Information Policy
