Google Tests Sideloading Wait for Unverified Apps Amid Malware Fears
Google has introduced an experimental sideloading process for Android devices that requires users to wait 24 hours before installing unverified apps. This move is aimed at preventing malicious developers from distributing malware-infected apps.
The new process was announced in August 2025, following a competition lawsuit between Google and Fortnite developer Epic Games over excessive Play Store commissions. As part of the settlement, Google agreed to drop its Play Store commissions to 20% on in-app purchases, while developers who use Google's billing system will pay an extra 5% fee.
Android Developer Verification was introduced in April 2026, requiring developers to identify themselves with Google to offer apps outside the Google Play Store. By September 2026, all developers must be registered to enable sideloading.
Users can still install unverified apps by enabling Developer Mode and waiting 24 hours after activating the advanced flow. However, Google warns that sideloaded sources have over 90 times more malware than Google Play.