Google announced its Android Developer Verification program last year to make app sideloading safer for Android users. And a few months ago, Google said Android users would have to wait 24 hours before sideloading apps from unverified developers. Now, the company has revealed the timeline of its new sideloading changes coming to Android.
Starting this month, Google will launch a new system service that will automatically install on most Android devices and will also be used to verify developer registrations later this year.
In July, Google will launch the Android Developer ID Status API globally and begin early access to the Android Developer Console API. It will also roll out early access to limited distribution accounts on the Android Developer Console. This type of Android developer account is for students, hobbyists, and learners, allowing apps to be shared on up to 20 devices without requiring a government-issued ID or fees.
Then, in August, Google will launch limited distribution accounts and a new Android Developer Console API globally. Additionally, it will launch an enhanced flow for power users to install apps from unverified developers.
On September 30, new developer verification protections will go into effect, starting with Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. App registration will be required for participating app stores, which include Google’s own Play Store, Honor App Market (Honor), Oppo App Market (Oplus), Galaxy Store (Samsung), V-Appstore (Vivo), Palm Store (Transion), and GetApps (Xiaomi).
Users will be able to sideload unregistered apps with Android Debug Bridge (ADB) or Advanced Flow.
Timeline shared by Google for its new app sideloading changes coming to Android
In 2027, Google will expand the Android developer verification requirement globally after incorporating feedback from its partners, users, and the developer community.
If you distribute apps in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore or Thailand through the app stores mentioned above, you must complete your verification by September.