According to a recent APK teardown, it seems that Google could be considering to block apps from being sideloaded onto Android phones.
Google Block Sideloaded Apps
Google’s Advanced Program is designed to protect its users against any targeted hacks (attacks) or unwanted risks of installing an app from an untrusted source. Moreover, Users have to use hardware keys and leave behind some freedom for that high level of security. As per the application (apk) teardown, a new advanced protection feature that ‘prevents sideloading of any apps’ on Android phones. This Advanced Protection Program may soon be announced as part of Google’s Advanced Protection Program.
As reported and code dug by 9to5Google the latest version noted #17.8.14 of the Play Store, and it includes several references to the app blocking feature. When you try to install an app with this feature enabled, the Play Store will return the notification – “For additional security, Advanced Protection won’t allow apps from outside the Google Play Store.”
Google Advanced Protection Program Code
The code further reveals that Advanced Protection will require APKs to be scanned. This will be an alert for the users who are not willing to give up sideloading applications. This means most of us reading this.
<string name=”advanced_protection_dialog_title”>App blocked by Advanced Protection</string>
<string name=”advanced_protection_dialog_message”>” For additional security, Advanced Protection won’t allow apps from outside the Google Play Store.”</string>
This clearly sound’s like the PlayStore will be able to prevent users from sideloading protection.
Now, before you start calling out the company for shutting down the feature that makes it the preferred choice for many users, I would like to assure you that the restriction won’t directly affect how Android works. The company is just trying to make the platform more secure for users. You can opt-in for the additional security measures (optional enabling) that come bundled with the Advanced Protection Program.
With the rise in malware and spyware, this is an essential step on Google’s part. And one will safeguard users against random apps or malware. Once you are opt-in, the new feature will scan the application before you sideload any app. This new feature can completely block the installation of APK on your Android phone for additional security.
