Get the latest tech news
Sideloading apps onto Android phones from random sources won’t be an option starting in 2026
Only developers who verify their identity will be able to let users sideload their apps.
Starting in September 2026, this verification step will be required in select regions, including Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, where Google says scams and malicious apps have been particularly disruptive. The system doesn’t analyze or restrict what developers publish; it simply ties their work to a verified identity, making it harder for bad actors to slip through. The tech giant has already seen success with identity verification on the Play Store since 2023, which helped cut down on fraudulent apps, financial scams, and malware targeting users.
Or read this on Android Central
