Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority
Back in late August, Google announced a major change to Android that angered many enthusiasts and independent developers. Starting next year, Android will block users from installing apps made by unverified developers. The announcement spurred backlash from power users who felt that the new restrictions would effectively kill sideloading. Today, Google announced a major concession to appease these users. The company says it is building a new “advanced flow” that will allow “experienced users to accept the risks of installing software that isn’t verified.”
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In its blog post, Google says this new advanced flow is intended for developers and power users who “have a higher risk tolerance and want the ability to download unverified apps.” The company says it is “designing this flow specifically to resist coercion” to ensure that “users aren’t tricked into bypassing these safety checks while under pressure from scammer.” The flow will include “clear warnings” to ensure that users “fully understand the risks involved” with installing apps made by unverified developers, but ultimately, it puts the choice to do so in the user’s hands. Google says it is currently gathering early feedback on the design of this feature and will share more details in the coming months.
In addition, Google announced today that it is inviting developers who distribute apps exclusively outside of the Play Store to the early access program for developer verification. These developers will be able to enroll in the Android Developer Console to verify their identity ahead of the enforcement of the verification requirements next year. Developers who distribute apps through the Play Store will receive invites to enroll shortly.
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