Google has recently announced a new process for installing third-party unverified applications in Android, in response to feedback from the community. This process will be implemented after the mandatory registration of developers and applications in certified Android builds. The new method includes a 24-hour waiting period after enabling the option for developers, allowing the installation of applications from manually downloaded apk packages created by developers who have not registered with Google and confirmed their personal data.
The installation algorithm for manually downloaded packages will involve the following steps: enabling developer mode in the settings by tapping the build number on the About Phone page seven times, confirming the user is aware of the risks and acts on their own initiative, rebooting the smartphone and entering the screen unlock code, activating the ability to install a manually downloaded package after 24 hours, and choosing between installing applications from unverified developers indefinitely or with a 7-day limit.
Additionally, every time an unverified application is installed, the user will be shown a warning about the risks and must agree to it by clicking the “Install Anyway” button. The new method also retains the option to install applications using the “adb” (Android Debug Bridge) utility, which requires connecting the device to an external computer and enabling developer mode.
There will be a free account type available for enthusiasts and students that works without identity verification but requires registration in the Android Developer Console of each device where the application can be installed. This type of account is limited to 20 devices.
