Google May Add New Play Store Verification Step to Discourage App Sideloading

Google is reportedly introducing additional verification layers in the Play Store as part of a broader effort to discourage app sideloading on Android devices. The move reflects the company’s growing focus on steering users toward apps distributed through the Play Store or other marketplaces officially verified by Google.

Over the past year, the Mountain View-based tech giant has become increasingly proactive about protecting users from potentially unsafe third-party apps, while still trying to preserve Android’s openness.

New verification layer may interrupt app installation flow

Code strings reveal Google’s latest approach

According to an Android Authority report, Google is working on a new mechanism that could interrupt the downloading flow of apps from third-party sources. The publication discovered new references within Play Store version 49.7.20-29, suggesting how Google plans to alert users about risks associated with sideloaded apps.

These changes indicate a shift toward friction-based warnings, rather than outright blocking installations.

Developer verification becomes a key checkpoint

Internet connection required for verification

The strings of code reportedly point to a new step where the Play Store attempts to verify the app developer before allowing installation. This step requires an active internet connection. If the connection is unavailable, users may see the message:

“No internet, can't verify app developer. The app can't be verified at the moment.”

This requirement suggests Google wants verification to occur in real time, rather than relying on cached or offline checks.

Users may still bypass verification—with warnings

Install option remains available

Despite the added verification step, users may still be able to proceed with installation. The code reportedly includes a warning message stating:

“If you install without verifying, keep in mind apps from unverified developers may put your device and data at risk.”

Shift from earlier strict stance

This approach differs from Google’s position in August 2025, when it announced that developer verification would be compulsory, triggering backlash from developers and Android power users. The softer implementation now appears designed to balance security concerns with user freedom.

Power users and students influenced Google’s approach

Sideloading remains important for many users

Sideloading is widely used by developers, advanced users, and students, particularly for testing apps, accessing region-restricted software, or installing educational tools not listed on the Play Store. Allowing users to bypass verification—albeit with warnings—appears to be a compromise aimed at addressing these use cases.

Google clarifies intent behind the new layer

Not a restriction, but a warning system

Responding to a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Matthew Forsythe, Chief Product Explainer for Developers at Google, clarified that the feature is not meant to block sideloading outright. He stated that it is not an accountability layer and not a sideloading restriction, adding:

“Advanced users will be able to ‘Install without verifying,' but expect a high-friction flow designed to help users understand the risks.”

This confirms Google’s focus on user awareness rather than enforcement.

Broader context of Android security changes

Gradual tightening without locking down Android

In recent years, Google has rolled out several measures aimed at improving Android security, including:

• Mandatory developer verification

• Enhanced Play Protect scans

• Stronger warnings for apps installed outside trusted sources

The reported Play Store changes appear to be another step in this direction, reinforcing security while stopping short of removing sideloading entirely.

Conclusion

Google’s reported addition of new verification layers in the Play Store signals a continued push to make Android safer without fully abandoning its open ecosystem. By introducing a high-friction flow and stronger warnings—while still allowing advanced users to proceed—Google is attempting to strike a balance between security, transparency, and user choice. If implemented, these changes could significantly influence how Android users interact with third-party apps in the future.