Google announced its Android Developer Verification Program last year to enhance the safety of app sideloading for users. A few months ago, the company communicated that Android users would have to wait 24 hours before sideloading applications from unverified developers. Recently, Google has unveiled the timeline for the forthcoming changes to Android's sideloading policies.
Starting this month, Google will initiate the rollout of a new system service that will be automatically installed on most Android devices. This service will be utilized to verify developer registration later this year.
In July, Google plans to launch the Android Developer ID Status API globally and will commence early access for the Android Developer Console API. Additionally, early access will also be opened for limited distribution accounts on the Android Developer Console. This account type is designed for students, hobbyists, and learners, allowing them to share apps with up to 20 devices without the need for a government-issued ID or a fee.
Moving into August, Google will fully launch limited distribution accounts along with a new Android Developer Console API worldwide. Moreover, they will introduce an advanced flow for power users to facilitate the installation of apps from unverified developers.
On September 30, the new developer verification protections will come into force, beginning with Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Registration will be mandatory for participating app stores, including Google Play Store, Honor App Market (Honor), Oppo App Market (OPlus), Galaxy Store (Samsung), V-Appstore (vivo), Palm Store (Transsion), and GetApps (Xiaomi).
Users will still be able to sideload unregistered apps using Android Debug Bridge (ADB) or the advanced flow.
Timeline for Google's new app sideloading changes on Android
By 2027, Google intends to expand the global requirement for developer verification after gathering feedback from its partners, users, and the developer community.
If you distribute apps in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, or Thailand via the aforementioned app stores, ensure to complete your verification by September.
Source
