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.

This is exactly the right thing to do and the best possible outcome. Google is correct that arbitrary Software installation can be harmful to users, especially those with limited technical knowledge. At the same time there are many users who want to install software freely and should be able to do so.

The compromise of a clear and unambiguous warning of the potential dangers, which the user is then allowed to accept, seems very good and the right thing to do.

/Old man laughing at "cloud" that is my baremetal.

I assume the results of my actions and I accept that if something bad is going to happen, it's my fault. I am fine with that.

I want the same kind of freedom on my phone, a device I own and I payed for with my own money. I am not smarter when using the PC and dumber when using the phone. I want to be able to opt out of verification and install whatever I want.