LOS ANGELES, Aug 26: Google announced plans Monday to begin blocking the installation of Android apps from outside the Play Store if the app developer’s identity has not been verified, marking a major step in the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance security across its ecosystem.

The move will require all Android app developers, regardless of where they distribute their apps, to verify their identities through a new streamlined Android Developer Console. Apps from unverified developers will no longer install on certified Android devices, which includes virtually all phones and tablets running Google services. Non-Google versions of Android will not be affected.

Google said the verification system is similar to “an ID check at the airport.” The company introduced developer identity verification for Google Play apps in 2023 and reported a significant drop in malware and fraudulent apps since. “Only apps with verified identities will be installable on certified devices,” Google said.

The new system will allow developers to register their app package names and signing keys but will not involve review of the app’s content or functionality. Early access to the system will begin in October 2025, with all developers gaining access in March 2026. Google plans to roll out the feature in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026 and hopes to expand globally in 2027.

The announcement comes as Android faces increased scrutiny over its app distribution practices. Google is involved in an ongoing antitrust case brought by Epic Games, which requires the company to allow third-party app stores and permit Play Store content to be rehosted on other platforms. While these changes increase user choice, sideloading apps from third-party sources can bypass Google’s built-in security protections.

Security experts note that most major malware threats on Android have historically spread through third-party app repositories. Google said that sideloaded apps are roughly 50 times more likely to contain malware than apps installed through the Play Store.

The company acknowledged that the verification requirement represents a significant shift for the Android ecosystem. “Enforcing a whitelist of verified developers ensures users can safely install apps while maintaining control over the app market as third-party sources expand,” Google said.

Details about how devices will enforce verification or handle non-verified apps have not yet been released. Google has said further guidance will be provided as the rollout approaches.