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Google wants to make sideloading Android apps safer by verifying developers’ identities
Google wants to make sideloading safer on Android by verifiying the identities of developers who distribute apps outside the Play Store.
Rolling out in phases from September 2026, these new verification requirements are aimed at protecting users from malware by making it harder for malicious developers to remain anonymous. To combat this, Google is introducing a major change that pulls back that curtain, making it harder for malicious actors to distribute harmful apps. Many hobbyist and student developers already complain about this requirement on Google Play, as it essentially forces them to reveal their personal information unless they set up a business address, so it’s good to see that Android won’t dox them.
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