Summary
- Google is building a new Advanced Flow that will allow users to install unverified software at their own risk.
- Google is creating a special account for hobbyists and students where it will waive the $25 fee and have fewer verification requirements.
- Details about the "Advanced Flow" are currently unknown but it's worth noting that the original restrictions aren't going away.
In a surprising turn of events, Google has announced a slight relief for those worried about app sideloading going away. While previous plans to block the installation of apps from unverified developers are still in full swing, the tech giant says it's building a new workaround that will still allow sideloading.
Sideloading app restrictions aren't going away, though
Google shared in a blog post that it's now building a new "Advanced Flow" system that will allow experienced Android users to bypass the upcoming restrictions to install unverified software at their own risk. The firm highlights that this move is a direct response to Android enthusiasts and developers who argued the original plan would block Android sideloading, a core feature of the platform.
Expanding more on how sideloading would work after the said changes, Google stated that advanced flow is intended for those who have a higher risk tolerance. It's being "designed specifically to resist coercion" to ensure scammers cannot trick a user into bypassing the safety checks.
This provides an alternative to the only other known bypass, i.e., using the tedious ADB command-line tool. Besides, for hobbyists and students, Google is creating a special account, waiving the $25 fee. The tier will have fewer verification requirements, but the account will be limited to distributing apps to a small number of devices.
Alongside this new flow, Google announced that the early access program for developer verification is now open for developers who distribute apps exclusively outside the Play Store. Invites for Play Store developers will begin rolling out on November 25, 2025.
We do not have any information on how this "Advanced flow" would work or the verification steps it would require for the developers to still make apps sideloadable. While we're glad Google is working on an alternative, it's worth noting that the original restrictions for sideloading apps on Android aren't going away.
Google says it is still gathering community feedback on this feature and will share more details in the coming months, so stay tuned.
-356w.webp "Oppo Reno 15C front and back Twilight Blue")
