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Google Explains New Process for Side-Loading Unregistered Apps

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Today, 1:37 PM by Rich Brome @rbrome.bsky.social

As promised, Google has announced the details of how users will be able to side-load apps that are not registered with a "verified" developer. Google's new developer verification program is designed to combat malware that scammers convince their victims to install (side-load). The new "Advanced Flow" lets "power users" bypass this protection, but puts up several barriers designed to stymie scammers. Users must confirm that they are not being guided or instructed by someone else (a scammer) and that they understand the risks. Crucially, they must also restart their phone and wait 24 hours, interrupting the flow of a typical scam. They can then choose to enable the bypass for seven days, or indefinitely. As previously announced, there will also be a "limited distribution" developer account option, intended for students and hobbyists. This will let those developers register their apps without the full verification requirements and fee. Those apps will then be eligible for side-loading without requiring the "Advanced Flow", but will be limited to installation on no more than 20 devices.

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