Just came across Google’s new blog post about the extra security layer for certified Android devices. Pretty big change, they’re basically saying every app, even sideloaded ones, needs to come from a verified developer. I get why they’re doing it, but I’m curious how this will affect people who like installing apps from outside the Play Store. Anyone else read it?
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Aug 28, 2025
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Yeah, I read it this morning. Honestly, I’m torn. On one hand, the stats Google shared were wild like how malware from outside official sources is way more common. So, developer verification makes sense.
But at the same time, I kind of like the freedom Android gives. This feels like Google tightening the gates, even if the intention is good.
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Participant
Aug 29, 2025
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Same here. I’m not against security, but Android’s whole identity has always been about openness. If every developer has to verify themselves, it’s still fine, but I hope the process doesn’t become a huge hassle for indie devs. They’re the ones who will feel the pressure first.
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Participant
Aug 29, 2025
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Yeah exactly. Google says the program opens fully in 2026 and enforcement rolls out country by country. I just hope the verification system isn’t “corporate-friendly only”. Otherwise, we’ll lose a lot of the creative stuff that made Android fun in the first place.
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Participant
Aug 30, 2025
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True, but I guess we’ll have to wait and see how strict it gets. I’m all for security, just hoping it doesn’t accidentally choke the ecosystem.
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