Google Plans Extra Safety Checks for Android App Sideloading

Google has long stood apart from other mobile platforms by allowing users to sideload apps—installing applications from sources outside the Play Store. While this openness remains one of Android’s core strengths, Google is increasingly concerned about the security risks that come with it. Now, the company appears to be preparing an additional safety layer aimed at making sideloading more secure without taking away user choice.

According to a report by Android Authority, Google is experimenting with new code strings found in a beta version of the Play Store. These suggest that the company is working on a feature that can verify the authenticity of app developers when users install apps from outside the Play Store. In simple terms, Android may soon be able to tell you whether the developer behind a sideloaded app is genuine—or potentially risky.

The proposed system would rely on an active internet connection. If the device is offline, users may see a warning message stating, “No internet, can’t verify app developer." This indicates that Google plans to cross-check developer credentials online before allowing or approving a sideloaded installation. The aim appears to be transparency rather than restriction, helping users make more informed decisions.

At present, Google already discourages sideloading through warnings and by promoting Play Protect, its built-in malware detection service. Users often need to disable certain protections to install apps from unknown sources. While sideloading is generally safe for experienced users, malicious apps remain a concern, especially for less tech-savvy audiences who may not fully understand the risks.

The new verification option could offer reassurance by scanning the origin and credibility of developers distributing apps outside the Play Store ecosystem. Rather than blocking installations outright, Google seems to be leaning toward education and risk awareness—alerting users before something goes wrong.

This direction aligns with comments made by Google’s chief for developers, Matthew Forsythe, who has spoken publicly about verifying developers who distribute apps through alternative platforms. His remarks suggest that Google wants to strike a balance between platform openness and user safety, rather than enforcing rigid controls.

Despite repeated efforts, Google has found it challenging to significantly reduce sideloading on Android devices. Instead of banning the practice, the company has steadily added friction—warnings, permissions, and safety checks—to ensure users proceed cautiously. The upcoming developer verification feature appears to be another step in that strategy.

Importantly, Google is not positioning this change as an anti-sideloading move. The company acknowledges that many users rely on apps distributed outside the Play Store for legitimate reasons, including regional availability, enterprise use, or open-source development. What it wants, however, is to make sure users understand the risks and can verify who they are trusting with their data.

If rolled out widely, this new security layer could offer peace of mind to millions of Android users—preserving freedom of choice while quietly strengthening protection against malicious software.