Google will require programmers verification for Android applications outside the Play Store

Google tightens security measures around the distribution of Android applications, the company announced on Monday. From next year, Google will begin to verify the identities of developers who distribute their applications to Android devices, not just those distributed through the Play Store. Changes will affect everyone Android certified devices Once you live, although global development will be more gradual.

The technological giant emphasizes that this does not mean that developers cannot distribute outside the play store through other applications or Sideloading – Android will remain open in this respect. However, developers who appreciated the anonymity of alternative distribution methods will no longer have this option. Google says this will help reduce bad actors who hide their identity to distribute malicious software, commit financial fraud or steal users’ personal data.

According to her own research, Google says that more than 50 times more malicious software came through sources loaded on the Internet compared to Google Play, where she required developers verification by 2023.

Initially, Google will allow interested developers to register for timely access by starting in October 2025 to test the system and provide feedback. In March 2026, verification will be released for all developers. By September 2026, any application installed on an Android device in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand will have to meet the new requirements. Starting in 2027, demands will start circulating worldwide.

Developers should provide their legal name, address, email and phone number, who could push independent developers to register as a business for the sake of their privacy. Apple applied a similar change for EU app store earlier this year to comply with Digital Services Act (DSA), a regulation that now requires application developers to provide the “Trader” status to submit new applications or application updates for distribution.

Google notes that student and hobby developers will be able to use a separate type of developer Android console account when this system unfolds as their needs differ from commercial developers.

Changes could have a significant impact on Android applications ecosystem and distribution, as Google is working to reduce security issues and malware that has usually plagued its platform.