Google Introduces Verified Email Feature for Seamless Android App Signups

At a glance:

• Google now allows Android app signups via email without magic links or OTPs using Verified Email.
• The feature is available for consumer Gmail accounts only.
• Android devices running version 9 or newer with Google Play Services 25.49.xx or later can use this feature.

What is Verified Email and How Does It Work?

Google has introduced a new feature called Verified Email to streamline the process of signing up for Android apps. Traditionally, when users sign up for an app, the app sends a magic link or one-time PIN (OTP) to their email address to verify ownership. However, Google has now updated the Android Credential Manager API to include Verified Email.

With Verified Email, users can sign up for an app directly from the Android OS without needing to switch to their email app to retrieve a magic link or OTP. Instead, the app can access a "cryptographically verified email credential" sourced from the user's Google account and stored on their device. This means that the app can verify the user's email address without relying on the user to manually enter a code or click a link.

Benefits of Verified Email

Google has highlighted several benefits of the Verified Email feature. First, it makes the process of signing up for new apps more seamless and convenient for users. Instead of having to deal with magic links or OTPs, users can simply sign up with their email address and be done with it.

Second, Verified Email can also be used for account recovery and re-authentication for sensitive actions, such as changing key settings. This means that users can recover their accounts and verify their identity without having to go through the same verification process as when they first signed up.

Limitations and Considerations

While Verified Email is a convenient feature, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind. First, the feature is currently restricted to consumer Google accounts. This means that users with Workspace or managed accounts will still need to use the legacy email verification methods.

Second, for Google accounts created with non-Google email addresses, Google is not the authoritative source for these email addresses in the long term. While Google verifies the email when the account is created, the ownership of the email address might change over time. Therefore, app developers should consider an additional verification step, such as sending an OTP, to ensure that the user still has access to the email account.

Device and Software Requirements

The good news is that users don't need the latest Android phone or tablet to get this functionality. Google notes that the feature supports devices running Android 9 or newer, as well as Google Play Services 25.49.xx or newer. So even older devices can take advantage of this new feature.

What's Next for Verified Email

Google has not yet announced any plans for expanding the Verified Email feature to other email providers or platforms. However, the company has indicated that it is actively working on improving the security and convenience of email verification for users.

In conclusion, Google's Verified Email feature is a convenient and secure way for users to sign up for new Android apps without dealing with magic links or OTPs. While there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind, the feature is a significant step forward in making the process of signing up for apps more seamless and user-friendly.