Google Starts Changing the Android App Sideloading System

The sideloading of Android apps is about to change. Google intends to introduce a verification system that developers wishing to publish apps outside of the Play Store must adhere to. This process is still under development, but an initial piece has already been introduced with the arrival of verification tools on Play Console and Android Developer Console.

Steps for Introducing the New System

Google has outlined a series of steps that will lead to the full adoption of the new system. Starting this month, the integration of Android Developer Verifier into the Android operating system is expected. This tool will allow the system to verify whether the developer of an app is certified or not.

Starting next August, advanced sideloading features will be enabled for users, allowing them to install external apps to the Play Store using the verification system. Beginning in September 2026, new rules for developers are expected to come into effect (at least in select markets such as Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand). For apps to be installed via sideloading, they must be developed by certified developers.

Finally, in 2027, the system will be implemented globally and will become the new standard for Android. This decision is linked to the desire to reduce security risks for users. According to Google, the prevalence of malware in apps installed via sideloading is over 90 times higher compared to apps installed through the Play Store.