Kordant/tasks/android-production/27-target-api-compliance.md

27. Target API Level & Policy Compliance

meta: id: android-production-27 feature: android-production priority: P1 depends_on: [] tags: [compliance, play-store, policy, production]

objective:

• Ensure app targets the latest API level and complies with all Google Play policies

deliverables:

• Target API level 36 (or latest)
• No deprecated API usage
• Policy compliance verification
• Malware and abuse prevention

steps:

1. Verify target API level:
   • Currently targeting API 36 (good)
   • Ensure compileSdk is latest
   • Check targetSdk in build.gradle.kts
   • Update if needed before submission
2. Check for deprecated APIs:
   • Run lint check for deprecated API usage
   • Replace any deprecated methods
   • Update to modern alternatives:
     • Use BiometricPrompt instead of FingerprintManager
     • Use WorkManager instead of JobScheduler directly
     • Use NotificationChannel for notifications
     • Use FileProvider for file sharing
3. Verify policy compliance:
   • No malware, viruses, or deceptive behavior
   • No unauthorized use of copyrighted content
   • No impersonation of other apps
   • No manipulation of ratings/reviews
   • No excessive ads or disruptive monetization
4. Check for restricted content:
   • No hate speech or harassment
   • No dangerous products or services
   • No illegal activities
   • No sexually explicit content
5. Verify monetization compliance:
   • In-app purchases properly configured (if applicable)
   • No deceptive pricing
   • No forced payments for basic functionality
   • Subscription terms clear and fair
6. Test on latest Android version:
   • Test on Android 14 (API 34)
   • Test on Android 15 (API 35) if available
   • Verify no compatibility issues
   • Check for new permission requirements
7. Address pre-launch report issues:
   • Run pre-launch report in Play Console
   • Fix all crashes and ANRs
   • Fix accessibility issues
   • Fix security warnings

tests:

• Lint: No deprecated API warnings
• Policy: Internal review checklist
• Compatibility: Test on Android 14/15

acceptance_criteria:

• Target API level 36 (or latest available)
• Compile SDK latest stable version
• Zero deprecated API usage
• No lint warnings for deprecated APIs
• All Google Play policies complied with
• No restricted content
• Monetization compliant
• Pre-launch report issues resolved
• App works correctly on Android 14+
• No security warnings in Play Console

validation:

• Run lint → 0 deprecated API warnings
• Test on Android 14 → no issues
• Test on Android 15 → no issues
• Pre-launch report → all checks pass
• Play Console → no policy warnings
• Internal review → all policies checked

notes:

• Google requires targeting latest API level for new apps
• Pre-launch report catches many issues automatically
• Address all pre-launch report issues before submission
• Keep up with Google Play policy updates