Security

For years, Android’s openness was one of its biggest strengths. Anyone could build an app, share it, and sideload it freely. Users were warned about the risks, but the choice was always theirs. Starting in 2026, Android will require developer verification for apps to run on certified devices. Apps from unverified developers can be blocked, even when users knowingly install them. Google calls it security. Critics call it a loss of freedom. Understanding what’s changing and where Android draws the line now matters more than ever.