So, Google's making some big changes to how we install apps on Android, and it's got people talking. Basically, they want to verify every developer, even those who aren't on the Play Store. If a developer doesn't get verified, installing their apps on your phone will be a no-go, at least on devices with Google Mobile Services.

Google claims this is all about stopping bad guys from spreading malware, but some folks think there might be more to it, like trying to kill off Android emulation or making things harder for e-readers. To calm things down, Sameer Samat, who's in charge of the Android Ecosystem at Google, said that sideloading is here to stay. He said the new rules are just to make sure you know who you're getting apps from.

Even with Samat's words, many are still worried about the details. We know Google wants to block apps from unverified developers starting in 2026, to help reduce malware, but we don't know exactly how they plan to do it. Most would assume they would simply improve Google Play Protect, but the reality is quite different.

Instead of using Play Protect, Google's apparently building a whole new system called Android Developer Verifier. This new app will check if an app is from a verified developer, meaning someone who's signed up with Google through their new Android Developer Console. Unlike Play Protect, this app isn't on your phone yet. Google will make phone companies put it on new phones that come out with Android 16 QPR2 or later.

Why does it matter that Google's making a new app? Well, it could change things a lot. If they create a new app, disabling Play Protect probably won't disable the Android Developer Verifier, meaning you may not be able to install apps from outside the Google Play Store using the device’s built-in package installer anymore. I think this is not a good idea from Google.

But there's a silver lining. Google says you'll still be able to install apps without verification using ADB. ADB, or Android Debug Bridge, is a tool developers use to control their phone from a computer. So, if you're tech-savvy, you can still sideload apps.

Let's hope Google keeps its word about ADB. The changes don't happen for at least a year, so they could still change their mind. While I hope they let us keep using ADB, they might decide to block it to stop scammers. I think that would be a mistake because the decision to make Android Developer Verifier, raises more questions than it answers.