Google is killing a defining feature for Android phones soon - and there's one reason why
Google will require developer verification for sideloaded Android apps to reduce malware and impersonation originating from internet-sideloaded sources.
Android app developers will soon need to verify identity to distribute apps outside Play Store
Developers sideloading Android apps must complete Google's developer verification by September 2026, with early access in October and device-level blocking for unverified apps.
F-Droid says Google's new sideloading restrictions will kill the project
Allowing Google to control developer verification risks ending F-Droid and centralizing Android app distribution through data collection and developer fees.
Google will require developer verification for Android apps outside the Play Store | TechCrunch
Google will require identity verification for developers distributing apps on certified Android devices beyond the Play Store, with phased rollout beginning March 2026.