Google has started to distribute a new mode to Android for users who want to install apps from developers without a confirmed identity. The company retained the freedom of installation, but it will not be possible to enable such a mode instantly: before lifting the restriction, the smartphone will make the owner wait 24 hours.
The new mechanism appeared on the background of the verification of Android developers. Google connects applications with real people or organizations so that malware creators have a harder time returning to new applications after blocking previous ones. Since March, the company has registered millions of applications, including almost all programs from Google Play and a significant portion of programs from other sources.
The restriction applies only to unregistered applications from unverified developers who have decided not to confirm the identity. The usual installation of registered programs from stores, sites, messengers and file storage does not require additional configuration. Installation via Android Debug Bridge will also continue to operate without verifying the developer, which confirms the official documentation of Google.
To allow the installation of unregistered applications without Android Debug Bridge, the user must open the developer parameters and enable the item for applications from unverified developers. Android will ask to confirm the identity of the screen lock, warn of possible fraud, and then require to restart the smartphone. After the reboot, the mandatory wait for 24 hours begins.
Google explains the delay in that it protects users from fraudsters who, during the call, convince the victim to change security settings and install malware. The reboot breaks the active call or remote control session, and the day gives the owner time to independently check the request. After waiting, the mode can be switched on for seven days or indefinitely. When installing a suspicious Android application, the user will continue to show the warning, but the user will be able to choose the installation in any case.
If you disable the mode, Android gives ten minutes to re-enable without a new daily wait. When the mode is switched off, the already installed unregistered applications will also not be updated in the usual way.
The first mandatory checks will take effect on September 30, 2026 on certified Android 7 and newer devices in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. In the first stage, the requirements will affect Google Play, HONOR App Market, OPPO App Market, Galaxy Store, Palm Store, V-Appstore and GetApps. At the same time, the direct installation of applications and third-party stores outside the list will remain without new restrictions. Globally, Google plans to extend requirements to applications for certified devices in 2027.
The Android Developer Verifier system service, which Google is gradually installing on devices, is responsible for verification. For students and amateur developers, the company also prepared free accounts with simplified requirements. Through them, applications can be distributed to a maximum of 20 pre-authorized devices.
The new mechanism appeared on the background of the verification of Android developers. Google connects applications with real people or organizations so that malware creators have a harder time returning to new applications after blocking previous ones. Since March, the company has registered millions of applications, including almost all programs from Google Play and a significant portion of programs from other sources.
The restriction applies only to unregistered applications from unverified developers who have decided not to confirm the identity. The usual installation of registered programs from stores, sites, messengers and file storage does not require additional configuration. Installation via Android Debug Bridge will also continue to operate without verifying the developer, which confirms the official documentation of Google.
To allow the installation of unregistered applications without Android Debug Bridge, the user must open the developer parameters and enable the item for applications from unverified developers. Android will ask to confirm the identity of the screen lock, warn of possible fraud, and then require to restart the smartphone. After the reboot, the mandatory wait for 24 hours begins.
Google explains the delay in that it protects users from fraudsters who, during the call, convince the victim to change security settings and install malware. The reboot breaks the active call or remote control session, and the day gives the owner time to independently check the request. After waiting, the mode can be switched on for seven days or indefinitely. When installing a suspicious Android application, the user will continue to show the warning, but the user will be able to choose the installation in any case.
If you disable the mode, Android gives ten minutes to re-enable without a new daily wait. When the mode is switched off, the already installed unregistered applications will also not be updated in the usual way.
The first mandatory checks will take effect on September 30, 2026 on certified Android 7 and newer devices in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. In the first stage, the requirements will affect Google Play, HONOR App Market, OPPO App Market, Galaxy Store, Palm Store, V-Appstore and GetApps. At the same time, the direct installation of applications and third-party stores outside the list will remain without new restrictions. Globally, Google plans to extend requirements to applications for certified devices in 2027.
The Android Developer Verifier system service, which Google is gradually installing on devices, is responsible for verification. For students and amateur developers, the company also prepared free accounts with simplified requirements. Through them, applications can be distributed to a maximum of 20 pre-authorized devices.