Google Play preps upcoming "install without verifying" support
Android Authority • • technology
Key Points:
- Google plans to require developers to register even for sideloaded apps starting in 2026, but after pushback, it agreed to offer an "advanced" manual install option for informed users to install unverified apps.
- Recent updates to Google Play (version 49.7.20-29) reveal new text strings indicating users will receive warnings about risks when installing apps without developer verification and may proceed despite these warnings.
- The new installation flow will require an active internet connection to verify developers, and users without connectivity will be alerted that verification cannot be completed.
- Google aims to roll out this system initially in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand starting September 2024, with further refinements expected before wider implementation.
