Posted by erohead 11/13/2025
this is a misleading title. they only allow side-loading unverified apps only on fewer devices.
> Based on this feedback and our ongoing conversations with the community, we are building a new advanced flow that allows experienced users to accept the risks of installing software that isn't verified. 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. It will also include clear warnings to ensure users fully understand the risks involved, but ultimately, it puts the choice in their hands.
Or am I misreading your comment?
Marketing at work, I am not giving away my ID to publish an app on an alternative app store, like F-Droid.
Google is abusing their "gatekeeper" status, like Apple does.
Sounds like just trying to save face, they didn't have a language of "we're only _MAYBE_ stopping everyone from installing non-verified apps" back then. They were quite adamant.
But happy that they're dropping the craziest part of this in any case. Won't stop me from investigating Graphene OS and other options when getting my next handset though, the previous move surely caused a jolt in my interest.
I'm really over third parties telling me that my safety is their priority. Unless you're transporting my body (ie, airline, ride share, etc), then I really don't need you to be looking out for my safety. See the problem is: when you do look out for my safety, you do it by giving yourself control over my life that is not healthy for either of us.
Let my safety be my concern, and the functionality of your product can be your top priority.
Two key announcements:
> we are building a new advanced flow that allows experienced users to accept the risks of installing software that isn't verified.
> We are using your input to shape a dedicated account type for students and hobbyists. This will allow you to distribute your creations to a limited number of devices without going through the full verification requirements.
I think it was mentioned somewhere else that that account type would require manually authorising each individual installation, so it'd still be useless for small freeware developers, who are only in it for the fun, too, but want to give away their software to everybody who might find it useful.
I'm not naive to think its not happening today, whats probably new is them admitting to it.
How long does it take them to use that info to drop ban hammer on the user accountd for using apps like newpipe and hide behind reasons like violation of TnCs.
> Google will allow users to sideload Android apps without verification
Which seems to be false. As far as I understand, Google still requires verification.
Verification sounds great on paper, but if this turns into “prove you’re a real dev by jumping through 12 forms of bureaucracy,” it’ll just push more talent to sideloading and open platforms.
Still, if Google actually nails this — transparent, fair, and fast — it could be the first time in years Android feels safer without feeling locked down. That’d be a plot twist I’d love to see.
Mercedes will allow drivers to carry passengers without verification.
Sounds silly, doesn't it?