Soon, Google may block users from sideloading apps on Android
What's the story
One of the best things about Android is the flexibility to sideload apps.
The feature has been available since the platform's early days, making it different from Apple's closed iOS.
But now, in order to boost Android security, Google appears to be working on a way to block users from sideloading apps.
Here's all about it.
Feature
App sideloading comes with its own positives, negatives
If an app isn't available on the Google Play Store, Android users can sideload it using the APK of that program.
The feature helps with using an app if it hasn't been approved by the Play Store due to some reason or is yet to be approved.
However, as most APKs are unchecked, they can also be disguised to deliver malware on phones.
Change
Google working to prevent sideloading in future
During a recent teardown of Play Store's latest version (v17.8.14), the folks at 9To5Google spotted signs indicating Google's plan to prevent sideloading of apps.
The feature may come as part of the company's Advanced Protection Program, which offers participating users advanced security measures and tools to stay clear of targeted phishing attacks or unwanted security risks.
Working
How this feature would work?
Though the working of this feature remains unclear, the code unearthed from the teardown indicates that enabling it would prompt the Play Store to block unknown APK installs.
The store will stop the sideload attempt and display a message saying: "For additional security, Advanced Protection won't allow apps from outside the Google Play Store."
This will, therefore, prevent the potential risk of malware attacks.
Alternative
Interestingly, Google will offer an alternate option too
As enforcing a complete block on sideloading isn't fair for loyal Android users, the internet giant might also include an alternate option with the blocking capability.
With this, instead of blocking the app being sideloaded, the Play Store might be prompted to conduct a thorough scan of the app using Play Protect and flag if a potential security threat is detected.
Availability
No surety on its availability yet
Google's blocking feature can leave Android users divided, but one thing is clear, the move is motivated by the need for better security on the platform.
The cases of malware have risen lately and effective handling of third-party APKs could do some good.
Notably, Google hasn't yet confirmed this feature till now.