GoKawiilSideloading, one of Android’s core features — and the hallmark of its open-source nature — is changing. On March 19, Google announced a lot of new rules and restrictions coming to Android’s sideloading process. In some regards, it’s worse than what we expected.
To be clear, sideloading isn’t going away from Android, but how it works will be significantly different from what we’re all used to. And for long-time Android fans, it’s going to be a particularly difficult adjustment.
If you’re an Android user and are confused about what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and when you should expect this new version of sideloading, here’s everything you need to know.
What do you think about Android's new sideloading flow for unverified apps? 3708 votes It's a good move. Better security is worth the extra steps. 19 % I get why Google is doing it, but it feels like overkill. 32 % This makes Android less open and hurts power users. 47 % Doesn't affect me, I don't sideload apps. 2 %
You still need to enable Developer Mode
Joe Maring / Android Authority
Let’s start on an easy note. To begin Android’s new sideloading process, you’ll still need to enable Developer Mode, just as you’ve always had to. Furthermore, the steps for enabling Developer Mode aren’t changing, either. You’ll still open the Settings app, tap About Phone, and repeatedly tap Build Number until Developer Mode is activated.
This is how you set up your Android device for sideloading right now, and that’s how you’ll still do it even when Google’s new rules take effect. However, where things change has to do with what comes next.
There are a few new steps after that
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