Google Tightens Rules for Installing Apps Outside Play Store: What Android Users Need to Know
Google is preparing new restrictions for installing apps outside of the official Android store, but is not abandoning this possibility entirely. The company has revealed details of the updated app download mechanism. Installing APK files from unverified sources will become more difficult for users.
What is known
After the changes, this feature will be available through a one-time multi-step procedure. Users will need to enable developer mode in settings, confirm their independent actions, restart the device, wait 24 hours, and then authenticate via biometrics or a PIN code. After this, users can install apps from unverified developers. Access can be opened for 7 days or indefinitely. Warning about installation from an unverified source will remain mandatory.
The company also changed its approach to developer verification. Previously, it was planned to make it mandatory for everyone, but now exceptions are provided. In particular, there will be free accounts that allow distributing apps without full verification. Within such an account, access to an app can be granted to a maximum of 20 devices without providing a government document or paying a registration fee.
Google reports that the new rules apply to both the installation of apps and their distribution outside of Google Play. Access to the early version of the verification process for developers is already open.
The launch of the updated system is planned for August.
Source: Google
