Opinion

Here's why Google’s sideloading restrictions actually make sense

Google's move to slow down APK installs comes in bad taste, but it might save the millions of Android users from getting robbed.
Hosted on MSN

No, Sideloading Android Apps Isn't Going Away, Google Says

A lot of information about the future of sideloading apps on Android has been swirling around the internet in the last month, ever since Google announced it would make major changes to how it will ...
9to5google

Here’s how Android app sideloading & third-party billing will change following settlement

Google has reached a settlement in a US antitrust lawsuit which will have effects on the future of sideloading on Android, and we’re getting an idea of what that means for app sideloading and more in ...
Android

Sideloading on Android? Soon It’ll Be Like a TSA Check for Apps

Google has announced that starting next year, all Android apps—including sideloaded ones—will require developer verification. The move could make sideloading trickier but is aimed at reducing fake ...
Android Authority

As Android developer verification gets ready to go, here's a new reason to be worried

Google is putting together its framework for Android developer verification, connecting dev names to even sideloaded apps. Recent additions to the Android SDK offer a little insight into how the ...
TechSpot

Android users will soon be able to pause Google's anti-malware service for sideloading

In brief: Google Play Protect serves as Android's first line of defense against malicious apps. However, the mobile anti-malware service can sometimes make sideloading cumbersome – or even outright ...
Forbes

Google’s Sideloading Clampdown—Android Updates are Critical

Google is locking down Android and the message is simple — get used to it. Freedom carries risks. Android’s mantra was always you can’t have one without the other, if you want a locked down device, ...
9to5google

Android apps can now force Google Play download, effectively blocking sideloading

An updated API available to Android app developers can force users to download the app from Google Play, blocking the app from working if it is sideloaded. First announced at Google I/O 2024, the ...
GizChina

Android Sideloading Rules May Not Be as Strict as They Seem

For many, this feels like a big shift. Sideloading has long been one of Android’s most valued features. It let users install apps freely, in contrast to iOS, which locks users into its App Store. Now, ...
talkandroid.com

Sideloading Apps On Android Will Soon Get Easier

Terms of Google’s settlement with Epic have emerged, with third-party billing and side-loading of apps being made more convenient for the user. Image Credit: Peter Holden/TalkAndroid Editorial Note: ...

What is sideloading? Why Apple doesn't want you doing it

Apple has an aggressive stance against sideloading, despite pressure from some developers and users. The company has ...