Google just made its first real move to change sideloading forever

Google has begun rolling out Android developer verification for all developers via the Developer Console and Play Developer Console.

Users will see Android Developer Verifier appear in Google System services settings starting April 2026.

Initial user restrictions will begin in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026, with a global requirement planned for 2027.

Unverified apps can still be sideloaded but will require an advanced flow or ADB to install.