Google Play Policy Violation: READ_MEDIA_IMAGES / READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE – Need Scoped Storage or Compliant Access

[YAshAdroja]

Problem Summary

Our app is being rejected by Google Play for violating new storage access policies. The rejection is due to use of permissions like:

• READ_MEDIA_IMAGES
• READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE

We use react-native-image-crop-picker extensively, and the current permission model seems non-compliant after May 28, 2025.

Error from Google Play

"Permission use is not directly related to your app’s core purpose. Apps using READ_MEDIA_IMAGES/VIDEO must comply with Play policy as of May 28, 2025."

Questions/Request

1. Does the current library version support scoped storage or policy-compliant media access (e.g., via MediaStore or intent-based picker)?
2. Is there a plan to update the native Android code to avoid needing broad permissions?
3. Can the library support image picking without needing permission when using launchImageLibrary-like approach?

Environment

• react-native: X.X.X
• react-native-image-crop-picker: X.X.X
• Target SDK: 34 / 35
• Android 13+

Impact

This is blocking production deployment. Any workaround or upcoming fix would be highly appreciated.

Thanks for your work on this awesome library!