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Android’s new Developer Verification program may change how you install apps

Google argues that the Android Developer Verification program isn't meant to put an end to sideloading but instead will help bolster security.

The Android Developer Verification program is expected to roll out in September 2026.

was used to successfully extract data from Google Pixel phones and the new Samsung Galaxy S25. (Image Source; Pixabay)

A few months ago, Google announced that it would block the installation of apps from unverified developers starting next year. The move shocked many Android enthusiasts as many criticised Google for making Android into an iOS-like “walled garden”, which will allow the tech giant to limit and control which apps can be installed on a device.

Fast forward to October, Google has now clarified that sideloading – the ability to install apps from sources other than the Play Store is here to stay and shared details on how it will verify apps.

What is the Android Developer Verification program?

Earlier this year, in August, Google announced that, in an effort to ramp up security and prevent bad actors from “spreading malware and scams”, it is adding a new layer of security called “developer verification”. In a blog post, Google said starting next year, Android developers will need to register with the tech giant if they want to distribute apps; otherwise, their installation will be blocked and the user will get a warning message.

When users install an Android app, the operating system performs certain checks like application ID, version number and others to see if the app will successfully install. In the coming months, Google will be adding one more step to this process. At the time of installation, the operating system will communicate with the Android Developer Verifier, a system service that will check if the developer has been verified by Google.

If a developer is not registered with Google, Android will prevent the installation of their apps on certified devices. But since there are a lot of developers, Google says Android will need a network connection to verify if the app you are trying to install belongs to a verified developer.

To address this, the company says the Developer Verifier service will keep a cache of popular apps, allowing them to be installed without an internet connection. However, lesser-known apps may still require you to be online. In case you are wondering, the changes will also apply to older versions of Android via Google Play Protect.

Why is the Android Developer Verification program so controversial?

At first glance, this may seem like a step forward to reduce the distribution of malicious apps by bad actors, but F-Droid, a third-party app store for Android devices, says many open-source developers are unwilling to give their identification details to Google. The third-party app store, which hosts open-sourced apps, said Google’s registration program “will end the F-Droid project and other free/open-source app distribution sources as we know them today.”

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Google also said that it is waiving the $25 registration fee for students and hobbyists, but developers who register with Google might face some serious distribution restrictions. And while ADB installation will still work, it is still unclear if the workaround will work with other apps.

The Developer Verifier program is expected to go live sometime in September of 2026 and will be rolling out for all eligible devices throughout 2027.

Tags:
Android
Google