Google insists sideloading on Android will survive, but doubts remain for independent app stores

A photo of a Pixel 7 Pro with the restricted settings dialog showing

Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority
TL;DR
  • Google has published a new blog post insisting that sideloading on Android isn’t going anywhere.
  • The company reiterated that its new developer verification requirements are meant to improve safety, not to limit user choice.
  • However, Google failed to address concerns recently brought forward by independent app platforms like F-Droid.

After pushback from independent app stores like F-Droid, Google has published a new blog post clarifying its stance on sideloading apps on Android.



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