Google Tightens the Screws Again: Play Integrity API Gets Stricter (May 2025)

Google has rolled out major changes to the Play Integrity API and if you're running a custom ROM, rooted device, or just trying to use Android without full dependence on Google, this is going to hurt.

What Changed?

✅ meetsdeviceintegrity now requires hardwarebacked verified boot
Devices must have a locked bootloader and run an official, certified ROM. If you're using custom Rom, or anything nonstock you’re cooked.

✅ meetsstrongintegrity is even more exclusive
Now also requires a recent security patch (within the last year) across all partitions including vendor. Even many stock ROMs might not qualify here.

✅ meetsbasicintegrity isn’t safe anymore either
Google now demands Android Platform Key Attestation. Uncertified phones are getting pushed to the margins.

🖥App licensing and optional checks now demand Play Store installs

Apps have to be installed or updated via Google Play to receive full integrity responses. Sideloaded APKs or installs from alternative stores? No go.

What This Really Means?

Google is using “security” as a justification to tighten control over the Android ecosystem. These changes make it harder for:

❗ Users on custom ROMs to run apps normally
❗ Devices with root access to pass integrity checks
❗ People avoiding Google services to keep apps working
❗ Anyone who sideloads APKs to get full app functionality

This isn't about stopping real threats, it's about enforcing lockin. Developers who rely on these API checks may start denying access to anyone not playing by Google’s rules, even if the device is perfectly safe and secure.

Google is clamping down harder on user freedom under the banner of "security." If you're on a custom setup, expect more apps to break or block access unless you give up control and go back to Google's walled garden.

One Exception (for now)

These changes don’t affect Play Games for PC, which will continue to return meetsvirtualintegrity.

📱 @MeowDump