Google Reveals New Android Sideloading System: One-Day Wait, Then Full Access

Google has just confirmed the new sideloading system that it is going to implement. It will make sideloading a bit more tedious, but not really a problem. The company is doing this to boost safety on the platform.

Google’s initial announcement regarding sideloading did not sit well with consumers

Before we get into what’s new, let me give you some background first. Back in August last year, Google announced that sideloading will be very limited, as it will require developer verification for security purposes.

That did not sit well with Android power users, as the reactions were… intense. That is understandable considering that Android’s biggest advantage is its openness, and many users use apps outside the Google Play Store.

Then, in November, Google reacted to the community’s pressure by saying it would back down. The company said that the ‘Advanced Flow’ system is coming, and that sideloading will not be limited in the way they initially announced. It was said it would be more tedious, but possible.

And now the company has released a new announcement, talking about Android developer verification, and a detailed explanation of ‘Advanced Flow’. As expected, it will be a bit more annoying to sideload apps, but only the first time you do it. Let me explain.

Once you deal with the initial process, you’ll be able to install as many unregistered apps as you want. ADB installs are not affected, by the way, and what we’ll talk about next does not affect them. That includes the waiting period we’ll mention.

Google has just revealed details behind ‘Advanced Flow’, as sideloading will be more tedious, but possible

So, how does it work? Well, first you’ll need to enable developer mode in system settings. The process is the same as it was thus far; there’s no change regarding that.

Following that, there will be a quick check to make sure you’re not being “coached”. Google wants to make sure nobody is talking to you, and is navigating you to turn off your security. Power users will know what they’re doing, but Google wants to protect regular users from scammers.

After that, you’ll need to restart your phone and reauthenticate. This is being done to cut off any remote access or active phone calls a scammer may be using to watch what you’re doing.

Now, there’s also a one-day waiting period after that, before you’ll be able to sideload apps. After that period is over, you’ll be required to reauthenticate yourself, and you’ll be able to sideload whatever you want.

The company is trying to protect regular users

Google says that scammers rely on manufactured urgency, so they’re trying to protect regular users from any security issues.

Once you confirm you understand the risks, you’ll be able to choose whether this verification will stay on for 7 days, or indefinitely. Google confirmed that limited distribution accounts and advanced flow for users will be available in August, before the new developer verification requirements take effect.