My app had no privacy concerns, didn't collect any data or even require internet access. I was still expected to jump through all kinds of hoops every few months. Even after I gave up and my app was delisted I still get regular requests for new hoops they came up with with more threats that they would delist (even more?).
And yes, the app was moved to F-Droid which makes it invisible for just about 100% of Android users. I still think these kinds of posts serve as a good deterrent so others don't invest the effort in the Google Play store. The store is meant for corporations. If you are enthusiast or a non-profit considering the app a one-time investment, it will pester you and wear you down.
The massive API changes are why it's not just bumping a number. That's the exact core problem
It's Android itself that's crap, and Fdroid or any other alternative app store isn't going to help on this particular issue. Note that iOS has the same issue.
Play, on the other hand, gives you a year to move to the latest or be banned. And maybe be banned during that 12 months based on heuristics. And maybe be banned once you update the app, because not enough changed.
[1] https://github.com/minimaxir/hacker-news-undocumented/blob/m...
So it‘s not just a simple rebuild and an upload but Google wants certain screenshots of the app and all kinds of additional information
Screenshot updates are not necessary (just recommend to improve your rankings), and eventually answering some questions like "do you handle personal information in the app?". There's a few edge cases where you need to prove that you're using a specific permission for good reason.
Do you really thing these people are complete idiots who can't increment a number? Obviously it's more than that. And the "wHy CaN I TrUSt yOu wITh mY prIvACy" shade throwing is just outright bizarre.
If I can't trust you to do that, why can I trust you with my privacy? Are you using libs that still write in the shared data directory? Do you maintain your http clients up to date to not be fucked by SSL downgrades?
You can even upgrade two versions above (API 36), and you'll be fine for two years.
There's plenty to complain about with Google and Android. Massive API changes. But the Play store saying "please ensure you at least checked what happens when we draw the app edge to edge because Android 15 forces it" is not one.
And yes, if you don't want to do that, put it on fdroid. Host the APK on your website instead of making people go through the most privacy invading service to provide your privacy apps.