02.08.2024
2 min
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Google has launched an experiment that allows Android users to install apps from developers who have not been verified by the company.
Trying to prevent malicious developers from distributing malware-infected apps, Google announced plans back in August 2025 to tighten controls on installing apps from third-party sources on Android devices.
“Our recent analysis found over 90 times more malware from internet-sideloaded sources than on Google Play. That’s why, as an additional layer of security, we’re introducing Android developer verification to prevent bad actors from hiding behind anonymity and repeatedly causing harm,” said Matthew Forsythe, Google’s Director of Product Management for Android App Safety.
In April 2026, Google introduced Android developer verification, requiring developers to verify their identity with Google in order to distribute apps outside Google Play. Since then, millions of apps have already been registered. By September 2026, all developers will be required to register for their apps to be installed from third-party sources.
At the same time, Google has decided to preserve the option to install apps from developers who have not completed verification.
“For most users, the experience of installing Android apps won’t change at all. However, we recognize that some developers choose not to verify, and some advanced users want the ability to install apps from those developers, so we’re rolling out the first version of the advanced flow to provide that additional option,” wrote Mishaal Rahman, Android Community Engagement Expert.
Enabling the advanced flow is a one-time process. To activate the option, users must first enable Developer Mode by tapping the software build number seven times in the “About phone” menu.
They then need to go to Settings > System > Developer options and scroll down to “Allow unverified packages.” Next, they must enter their PIN or password, restart the device, and wait 24 hours.
Once the 24-hour waiting period is over, users need to return to the “Allow unverified packages” menu and enable the option to install apps from third-party sources.
“If for any reason you need to temporarily disable the advanced flow, you’ll have a 10-minute window to re-enable it without going through the 24-hour waiting period again,” Google said.
Google plans to expand Android developer verification worldwide in 2027.
The changes come after a lengthy antitrust legal battle between Google and Fortnite developer Epic Games over Google Play’s rules and fees. As part of the settlement, Google agreed to reduce its Google Play commission to 20% for in-app purchases, while developers using Google’s payment system will pay an additional 5%.
