338/69 Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Google has set September 30, 2026, as the start date for enforcing Android developer verification in the first four countries: Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Certified Android devices with Google services will check whether an app being installed comes from a developer who has verified their identity and registered the app. The measure covers app installations from Google Play and app stores operated by device manufacturers, such as Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO, vivo, Honor, and Transsion.
Reports indicate that Google will install a system service called Android Developer Verifier on devices running Android 8 and later to verify developer information before app installation. If an app has not been registered by a verified developer, users in countries where enforcement has begun will not be able to install the app through standard channels. However, Google will still allow unregistered apps to be installed through Android Debug Bridge or an advanced flow, which is intended for advanced users and includes additional verification measures.
Google stated that this measure aims to reduce the risk of malware and scams that rely on persuading users to install APK files from untrusted sources. App developers who distribute apps through stores in the countries included in the initial rollout should complete identity verification and app registration before the deadline. Android users should install apps only from trusted sources, verify the developer name and app permissions before installation, and avoid installing APK files from links received through SMS, email, or messaging apps.
Source: https://thehackernews.com/2026/06/google-sets-sept-30-deadline-for.html