Android sideloading is not dead, but Google is making it harder: Here is what you should know

Google has officially announced a new advanced flow that users will have to follow to install select Android apps from unverified developers. This comes after Google previously announced plans to restrict the app installations from unverified sources which drew criticism from developers and users with arguments such as it could limit Android’s open ecosystem. The newly introduced process appears to be a compromise, allowing sideloading to continue but with strict safeguards.

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Under the new system, the users who would want to install applications from unverified developers will have to go via a multi-step process. This includes enabling developer mode, confirming they are not being influenced by third parties, restarting the device and completing a verification step using biometrics or PIN. Notably, the process includes a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before installation can proceed.

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Google says the added friction is intentional and aimed at reducing scams. The company argues that many cybercriminals rely on urgency and social engineering tactics to trick users into installing malicious apps. By introducing delays and additional checks, the system is designed to give users to reconsider and ensure they are acting independently.

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Most importantly, the process is not required every time. Once completed, the users can choose to allow installations from unverified developers for a limited period, such as 7 days or enable it indefinitely. But the warning prompts will still appear during installation.

The verification program is currently in early access, but it is expected to be made available to all developers in the near future.

Google intends to make developer verification mandatory in stages, starting with select markets such as Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September this year, with a global rollout scheduled for 2027. The advanced installation process is expected to be introduced in August.

However, this has sparked debate within the developer community over Android’s openness and privacy concerns. On the other hand, Google is working on the Registered App Stores initiative, which will allow the third-party app marketplace to operate in regions other than the United States while adhering to certain trust and safety standards.

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Ashish Singh

Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek. View Full Profile