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August 26, 2026 • 3 min read
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- Unverified apps could disappear from Galaxy Store
- Users might have some headaches with existing installed apps
- This doesn’t completely kill sideloading
Google has been preparing to implement new sideloading protections on Android for quite some time. And now, Samsung is warning Galaxy Store developers that Google’s new Android Developer Verification rules are about to start affecting how apps are distributed on Galaxy phones.
Unverified apps could disappear from Galaxy Store
According to an official notice published through the Galaxy Store Seller Portal, developers distributing Android apps in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand need to complete Google’s verification process before September 30, 2026. Otherwise, their apps could disappear from the Galaxy Store. In that case, users may no longer be able to install or update them.
Android Developer Verification, or ADV, requires developers to verify their identity. They must also register the package names and signing certificates for the apps they distribute. Importantly, this isn’t limited to Google Play. The initial rollout also covers Galaxy Store, HONOR App Market, OPPO App Market, Xiaomi GetApps, and several other Android stores.
Samsung says that once enforcement begins, apps that haven’t completed the required verification and are subject to Android’s installation block will be hidden from Galaxy Store search results and listings.
Users might have some headaches with existing installed apps
Things get a little more annoying for existing users too. Even if you previously downloaded one of those apps, you won’t be able to reinstall it or receive updates through Galaxy Store until the developer completes verification. Previously installed apps will continue to launch normally, and existing purchase information will remain available.
Samsung has already started showing developers whether uploaded app binaries are considered Installable or Not Installable under the new system. Moreover, beginning in September, Seller Portal will block new registrations, as well as update submissions that contain binaries without ADV approval.
This doesn’t completely kill sideloading
There are some exceptions. Samsung says these changes will not affect apps distributed exclusively in mainland China, along with Watch apps, themes, wallpapers, icons, stickers, AOD content, and Instant Play titles.
Google’s verification plans have understandably raised concerns about Android becoming more restrictive. However, there is an important detail here. Power users will still be able to install apps from unverified developers through a new advanced flow, as long as they acknowledge the risks. They must also complete a one-time setup. In addition, ADB installations will continue to work as they do today.
So, Google isn’t completely shutting the door on sideloading. The bigger change is that installing an app from an unknown or unverified developer will no longer be as effortless as downloading an APK and tapping Install.
The September 30 rollout only covers Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand for now, but Google plans to expand Android Developer Verification globally in 2027.
For most Galaxy users, nothing changes immediately. But for developers distributing apps through Galaxy Store, the deadline is getting very close. Ignoring it could make their apps effectively disappear for users in the first four countries.
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