Google’s Sideloaded App Verification Process: What You Need to Know
Google announced last year that sideloaded apps on Android devices will require a new verification process, or the app would be blocked from installing. Thankfully, it backpedaled soon after and stated that users will be allowed to bypass the new verification system and sideload unverified apps if they want to ignore the new warnings. Android Authority has now found the first signs of the new unreleased sideloading restrictions in Android, but a Google director has reaffirmed that advanced users will be able to install without verifying sideloaded apps.
Understanding the New Verification Process
The latest version of the Google Play Store app for Android contains new lines of text that appear to be for the upcoming Android sideloading restrictions. These include:
• Install without verifying
• If you install without verifying, keep in mind apps from unverified developers may put your device and data at risk.
• Can’t verify app developer
• No internet, can’t verify app developer
• The app can’t be verified at the moment
These warnings are designed to inform users of the potential risks associated with sideloading unverified apps. However, advanced users will still be able to install these apps if they choose to do so.
Google’s Stance on Sideloaded Apps
Matthew Forsyth, Director of Product Management, Google Play Developer Experience & Chief Product Explainer, has reaffirmed that advanced users will be able to install unverified apps. He stated that the new process is “not a sideloading restriction, but an ‘Accountability Layer'” designed to help users understand the risks associated with sideloading.
While the current state of unrestricted sideloading on Android devices is preferred by many, having to jump through a few extra “advanced” steps in order to sideload unverified apps is certainly better than the outright ban that was initially proposed. Sideloading apps on Android already requires knowing how to reveal hidden menus and enabling the right options, so a few extra warnings shouldn’t affect things too much.
Implementation Timeline
Google will start implementing the new “high-friction flow” for Android sideloading in September 2026. The requirements will first go into effect in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. It has said that it “will continue to roll out these requirements globally” in 2027 and beyond.
