Google Guards Against Grey-Market Apps with New Rules
Google has announced new measures to strengthen security in Android app distribution. Starting from March 2026, developers will be required to undergo identity verification in order to distribute any Android app outside the Play Store. Under this system, developers must submit their legal name, address, email, and phone number, according to a report by TechCrunch.
Initially, the system will be introduced on a trial basis for developers in October 2025. By September 2026, it will be implemented in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. From 2027 onwards, the policy will gradually roll out worldwide.
Google stated that “malware spreads 50 times more through sources sideloaded from the internet compared to the Play Store.” Therefore, the new policy will enhance security and make it easier to identify malicious app creators. Separate accounts will also be available for students and hobbyist developers.
