Google revises Android developer rules, adds flexibility for sideloading apps after criticism

Google is now revising its controversial plan that may have required all Android developers, including those who distribute apps outside the Play Store, to undergo mandatory identity verification. The company confirmed it will now make a system that lets experienced users continue installing the apps from unverified developers, softening the policy that faced massive criticism.

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Initially announced in August, the new verification rules demanded developers share personal details like their legal name, address, phone number, and, in some cases, government-issued ID. Advocacy groups such as the Keep Android Open campaign and open-source platform F-Droid had raised alarms, arguing the move would limit user freedom and stifle independent app development.

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Now Google says the core verification plan remains the same, with early access already live. However, the company may add an advanced installation flow, which will allow the knowledgeable users to take responsibility for installing unverified applications. This process will include stronger warnings and security checks to guard against scams and malicious software.

Google plans to bring a new account type for students and hobbyist developers. These users will not have to meet full verification requirements but will be restricted to testing apps on a limited number of devices.

“Scammers rely on anonymity to operate at scale,” said Sameer Samat, President of Android, on X. “Verification helps stop that cycle, but we also recognize the need to balance safety with learning and user choice. The feedback from the community has been incredibly valuable,” it added.

The verification program will begin in 2026 across select markets, including Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, before expanding globally in 2027.

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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