The concept of sideloading is not new in the Android space. A lot of different applications (specifically modded APKs) are available outside the Google Play Store for users to download. However, it is also a known way for people with malicious intent to make their way to users' devices. Now, Google is introducing a new way to combat such instances.
An official Android Developers newsletter has now announced the launch of the Android Developer Verification program. This brings Google's verification and approval process to applications that exist outside the Google Play Store.
Hence, developers from now onwards will be required to pass through certain checks and eligibility requirements to be able to publish their app for Android. This is done in order to make the identity of the app publisher and developer known to Google. While it may not immediately curb the rollout of malicious apps, it will definitely make it difficult for app makers to stay hidden.
To create and publish Android apps, developers will now need to enrol themselves to the work-in-progress Android Developer Console. It is aimed to provide a streamlined checking process. Information like the developer's legal name, address, email, and phone number will be collected, stored and verified from Google's end. It is important to note that these informations will not surface on the user's end.
Additionally, commercial developers will need to bear a $25 (approximately Rs 2,200) registration fee to be eligible to enrol themselves to the Android Developer Console platform. However, this registration fee will not be required for students and hobbyist developers to bear.
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Image Credit: Google
Image Credit: Google
It is important to note that developers with existing Google Play Console accounts will not need to opt for a separate Android Developer Console. They can simply use signing keys to publish their apps. Also, developers looking to never publish on the Play Store will never need to create a Google Play Console account.
With that said, this new requirement will go into immediate effect with phased rollouts. The first is an early access program slated for October 2025 followed by a widespread developer support in March 2026. Users in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand will be the first to gain access to the Android Developer Console platform.
This new requirement from Google is tailored to make app developers more accountable for the products they bring to the Android ecosystem. It will also reduce the number of scams and fraudulent activities that are specifically caused when users sideload an application onto their device.
