Google’s Plan to Enhance APK Sideloading Security

Google is taking a significant step towards enhancing APK sideloading security by introducing a PIN or biometric authentication step. This feature will protect users from malicious APKs, requiring verification before installation, as reported by Android Authority.

The New Feature: A Layer of Protection

If the Play Store is suspicious of an APK, you’ll now be required to enter a PIN or submit biometric authentication before you’ll be able to install the APK or update an app with it. This will act as a layer of protection to make APKs sideloading safe and secure.

APK Security

The Current Warning System

At present, if an Android user tries to sideload an APK, a Google Play Protect warning pops-up on the screen. This warning can be dismissed by tapping on the ‘Install anyway’ button. However, with the new feature, Android users will be required to verify their device with the lock screen PIN or biometrics in order to install an app without scanning.

App Auto Open Feature Coming Soon

Google may soon add a new ability to the Google Play Store to automatically open an app after it is installed on the device. The feature, called App auto open, was discovered by Android Authority in version 41.4.19 of the Play Store. The feature will be enabled by default, but Android users will have the option to turn it on or off.

App Auto Open

Conclusion

Google’s new feature is a significant step towards enhancing APK sideloading security. With the increasing threat of malicious APKs, this feature will provide an additional layer of protection for Android users. The App auto open feature is also a convenient addition that will streamline the app installation process.