Google's Android developer verification rules hit four countries
New rules require apps from participating stores on certified Android devices to be registered to verified developers, starting in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand.
Google's new Android developer verification rules took effect on September 30 in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Under the rules, apps installed through participating stores on certified Android devices running Android 7 or newer must be registered to a verified developer. The participating stores include Google Play, Galaxy Store, HONOR App Market, OPPO App Market, Xiaomi GetApps, vivo V-Appstore, and Palm Store.
To address concerns about sideloading, Google has started rolling out an advanced sideloading flow that lets users bypass developer verification. The flow requires enabling an option in Developer Options, authenticating, restarting the phone, and waiting 24 hours. After the wait, users can allow installs from unverified developers for seven days or indefinitely. ADB installations remain exempt from the waiting period.
Google plans to expand developer verification globally across certified Android devices in 2027. The company has not announced specific dates for other regions.
User backlash
In an Android Authority poll earlier this year, 82% of respondents either called the approach overkill or said it makes Android less open. The new rules and the advanced sideloading flow are Google's attempt to balance security with user choice.
Quick answers
Which countries are affected by the new developer verification rules?
Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, as of September 30.
How can users bypass developer verification?
By enabling an option in Developer Options, authenticating, restarting the phone, and waiting 24 hours. After that, they can allow installs from unverified developers for seven days or indefinitely.
When will developer verification expand globally?
Google plans to expand it globally across certified Android devices in 2027.