Android 17 Blocks Non-Accessibility Apps from Accessibility API to Prevent Malware Abuse

Google is testing a new security feature as part of Android Advanced Protection Mode (AAPM) that prevents certain kinds of apps from using the accessibility services API, a change included in Android 17 Beta 2. According to Google, the latest restriction targets only non-accessibility apps, revoking their privileges when AAPM is active if they already hold the permission.

Verified accessibility tools, identified by the isAccessibilityTool="true" flag, are exempted from this rule, with screen readers, switch-based input systems, voice-based input tools, and Braille-based access programs designated as accessibility tools. The article notes that antivirus software, automation tools, assistants, monitoring apps, cleaners, password managers, and launchers do not fall under this category.

The move comes amid long-standing concerns that the AccessibilityService API has been abused to steal data, and follows the introduction of AAPM by Google in Android 16. 16 March 2026.