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Google Sets Sept. 30 Start for Android Developer Verification in Four Countries

Tying apps to verified developer identities should curb anonymous malicious installs by adding verification checks that preserve sideloading through a delayed advanced flow.

Overview

  • Google published an updated rollout plan Thursday that begins mandatory app registration on September 30, 2026 for users in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.
  • A new system service called Android Developer Verifier is being pushed to most Android 8+ devices this month to check whether an app’s package is registered to a verified developer.
  • Google will require registration for installs originating from seven partner stores, including Google Play, Samsung Galaxy Store, Xiaomi GetApps, HONOR, OPPO, vivo and Transsion’s Palm Store.
  • New developer tools will launch in coming months: the Android Developer ID Status API for checking package registration, the Android Developer Console API for managing names, and limited-distribution accounts for hobbyists that let apps run on up to 20 devices without ID or fees.
  • Sideloading remains available for power users through an advanced flow that adds security checkpoints and a 24-hour wait, and adb installs will still work, while Google plans a broader global expansion to certified devices in 2027 after partner feedback.