Kastoo
Google has started requiring apps installed on Android to come from developers with a verified identity, both on Google Play and on other stores such as Galaxy Store or Xiaomi GetApps. The rule has applied since 30 September 2026 in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand to apps from those stores, and Google plans to extend it in 2027 worldwide and to every app, including APKs downloaded from a website. In Europe, nothing changes for now.
What exactly has changed
- On certified Android phones and tablets in those four countries, apps installed from the seven participating stores (Google Play, Galaxy Store, Xiaomi GetApps, HONOR, OPPO, vivo and Palm Store) must be registered by a verified developer.
- APKs downloaded from a website are not checked yet; that comes with the 2027 expansion.
- Apps from unverified developers are not banned, but they will require extra steps.
- Google says it has found over 90 times more malware in apps from outside Google Play than in its own store; that is its argument for the change.
The new “advanced flow” for unverified apps
Installing an app from an unverified developer will require a one-time process designed to stop scams where someone guides you over the phone. Today it only affects unregistered apps from those stores; from 2027, any app from an unverified developer:
- Turn on developer options.
- Confirm that nobody is pressuring or coaching you to turn off security.
- Restart the phone and sign in again.
- Wait 24 hours and confirm with your PIN or fingerprint.
- Choose whether to allow these installs for seven days or indefinitely.
The 24-hour wait only applies to that first set-up, not to every install. Advanced users can also install apps with ADB from a computer without going through this process.
What about Europe?
For now, nothing. Google talks of a global roll-out “from 2027” but has not given a date for Europe. Nor has it detailed how it will apply to TVs and TV boxes running Android TV and Google TV: the published material refers to certified phones and tablets on Android 7 or later.
What it means for IPTV apps
Many IPTV players are installed as an APK from the developer’s website, especially on TV boxes and TVs with Google TV. When the rule reaches APKs, those from verified developers will install as before; those from unverified developers will require the advanced flow. It is a good reason to be wary of APKs that circulate without a website or an identifiable owner.
Frequently asked questions
Is Google banning APK installs?
No. Today, APKs downloaded from a website are not checked. When verification arrives, apps from verified developers will install as usual, and those from unverified developers with the advanced flow or with ADB.
Does it affect TV boxes with Google TV?
Google hasn’t detailed that yet. The published material refers to certified phones and tablets.
When does it reach Europe?
Google plans to extend it worldwide in 2027, with no specific date for Europe.
Sources
- Google details when Android’s new sideloading changes will start affecting users · Android Authority
- Google Didn’t Ban Android Sideloading — Here’s What Changed Sept. 30 · Gadget Hacks (updated 26 October 2026)
- Google Sets Sept. 30 Deadline for Android Developer Verification in Four Countries · The Hacker News
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