Here's how Google plans to 'balance' a safer Android with side-loading this year

Google will retain side-loading with a new advanced flow, google will keep Android's side-loading capability but introduce a new advanced flow for users who enable it.

Android users must activate developer mode and complete confirmations, users must enable developer mode in System settings and complete confirmations and verifications to use the advanced flow.

Google research reported roughly 57% of adults experienced a scam in 2025, google cited research that about 57% of adults experienced a scam in 2025.

Advanced Flow will arrive in August, google said the advanced flow will arrive in August ahead of new developer verification requirements.

Requires pressure confirmation and a device reboot, the advanced flow requires confirming 'no one is pressuring you' and then rebooting the device.