Google has announced plans to implement a new system that verifies the identities of all Android app developers, regardless of where they publish their content. This move aims to improve security and block malicious apps from being distributed outside of the official Google Play Store.
The company’s goal is to reduce the risk of malware and banned content on Android devices. In 2023, requiring all Google Play app developers to verify their identities led to a significant drop in malware and fraud cases. Now, Google plans to expand this verification process to include developers who publish apps outside of the Play Store.
To achieve this, Google will create a streamlined Android Developer Console that devs must use if they plan to distribute apps outside of the Play Store. Once verified, developers will need to register their package name and signing keys with Google. However, the company will not review or check the content or functionality of the apps.
This new system is seen as a step in the right direction for security, but some users and developers might find it intrusive. Nevertheless, Google’s initiative aims to provide an added layer of protection against malicious apps on Android devices.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/08/google-will-block-sideloading-of-unverified-android-apps-starting-next-year