Google Backtracks on Plan: Expert Users Will Still Be Able to Sideload Android Apps

Google Retreats: Google has announced a softening of its plan that would have required every Android app developer to verify their identity, even for apps installed outside the Play Store. Critics had warned that this move could completely eliminate the ability to install apps from third-party sources, known as Sideloading, which is the process of installing applications directly onto a device without going through the official store. The company now states it is developing a mechanism that will allow "expert users" to install apps from unverified developers.

Background of the Mandatory Verification Plan

Mandatory Verification Plan: For developers, including for apps outside the official Play Store, was first announced last August. It required developers to provide their legal names, addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers, and in some cases, upload government ID documents. This plan was met with widespread criticism from groups such as the "Campaign for an Open Android" and the open-source app repository F-Droid, who viewed this step as "ending individuals' ability to choose the software they run on their own devices."

Google's Concession for Expert Users

Significant Concession: The original plan is still in effect, with early access to the verification program launched yesterday. However, Google made a significant concession, announcing that the company is now working on developing an "advanced workflow that allows expert users to accept the risks of installing unverified software." This installation process will include safeguards to protect individuals who are coerced into installing a malicious app, or who are tricked by a scammer, as well as "clear warnings to ensure users fully understand the potential risks."

New Developer Accounts and Sameer Samat's Statement

New Developer Accounts: Google is also working on a new type of developer account for students and hobbyists, which will not require meeting "full verification requirements," but will allow apps to be installed on a "limited number of devices." Sameer Samat, head of Android, stated on X: "Keeping users safe on Android is our top priority. Scammers rely on anonymity to scale their attacks. Right now, if we block a bad app, they can often create a new one and try again. Verification stops this 'whack-a-mole' cycle by requiring real identity – making repeated distribution of harmful apps harder and more expensive. This is an important change, but we announced it early to get input. We’ve received really good feedback: students need a path to learn, and users, especially advanced users, want to take more risks with what they install. We’re making changes to address both."

Timeline and Future Changes

Timeline and Changes: Developer verification will roll out in 2026 for developers in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, before being implemented globally in 2027. This isn't the only major change on the horizon for Android: Google reached an agreement with Epic to end their lawsuit, which will reduce developer fees on Android, loosen rules regarding payment methods, and introduce official "registered" third-party app stores, although this agreement is still awaiting approval from the judge overseeing the case.