Google is moving forward with new Android sideloading restrictions that will arrive in September 2026.

The company calls this an “Accountability Layer” rather than a ban, though it will make installing apps (APKs) from outside the Play Store more difficult for average users.

Google plans to roll out this system in September 2026. Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand will see these requirements first. A global rollout is expected throughout 2027 and beyond.

What We Know So Far

New code strings found inside Google Play Store version 49.7.20-29 reveal warnings that users will soon encounter. Messages include “Install without verifying” and warnings that apps from unverified developers may put your device and data at risk.

Matthew Forsyth, a Google Director of Product Management, confirmed these changes on social media. He stated that advanced users will be able to “Install without verifying,” but they should expect a “high-friction flow” designed to help people understand risks involved.

The verification system requires an active internet connection to check developer registration status. Without connectivity, users receive a message stating “No internet, can’t verify app developer.” This means offline installations become more complicated under the new rules.

Why Is Google Doing This?

Google claims this system targets scammers who trick users into sideloading malicious apps. In November 2025, Google explained its reasoning:

“We are designing this flow specifically to resist coercion, ensuring that users aren’t tricked into bypassing these safety checks while under pressure from a scammer.”

The company added that warnings will help users “fully understand the risks involved, but ultimately, it puts the choice in their hands.”

A quick glance at the comments on Android Authority shows how frustrated Android users are becoming with Google’s latest sideloading announcements.

Can You Still Sideload Apps on Android Devices?

Yes, but it won’t be as simple. Current sideloading on Android devices already requires enabling hidden developer options and granting install permissions.

This update adds another verification layer that checks whether app developers have registered with Google.

We covered Google’s new side-loading changes last year when the company first proposed these measures. After pushback from the Android community and groups like F-Droid, Google softened its stance to allow informed users an “advanced” installation path.

Alternative app store advocates remain concerned about how this system will affect their platforms. The F-Droid project and App Fair Project have raised questions about whether these restrictions could harm open-source app distribution in the long term.

Final Thoughts

While these changes aren’t ideal for cord-cutters and streaming enthusiasts who rely on sideloading apps onto Android TV/Google TV devices, the situation could be worse.

Google backed away from its original plan to block unverified apps entirely while Amazon is already blocking third-party apps on Fire TV devices.

Users who understand the risks should still have access to sideloaded applications, though expect additional warning screens and confirmation steps before installation completes.

I recommend bookmarking our website as we will post about future updates when more details become available.

For more details on this story, refer to the original report from Android Authority.

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