By 2027, Sideloaded Android Apps Will Need Google’s Approval to Function

Google is preparing to tighten security controls across the Android ecosystem with a new system made to verify the identities of all app developers, not just those publishing to the Play Store. The company says this initiative will tackle the longstanding problem of malicious apps, which continue to spread mostly through third-party sources. According to Google's data, apps sideloaded outside its store are up to 50 times more likely to contain malware than those available through official channels.

Under this new and upcoming policy, developers who want their apps to work on most Android devices will need to go through verification via a new Android Developer Console. This will involve confirming their identity, registering the app's package name, and signing keys.

Unlike the Play Store, Google will not check functionality or content. Only verified apps will be installable on certified Android devices, which make up the vast majority ...