Google is making it harder to install apps directly on to Android phones without going through an app store. The new rules include a mandatory restart and 24-hour wait.

It's a surprise move coming at the same time Google is also opening up access to app stores other than its own Play Store, which it has done in response to regulatory pressure over alleged anti-competitive behavior.

The change of policy affects sideloading. That's when a user directly installs an app on a phone, using a file rather than having an app store handle the install. With Android, users must explicitly change security settings to allow "Unknown Sources", which comes with a warning that such apps have not been verified and could be a security risk.

A Burdensome Process

Now Google is adding several steps to make that process more burdensome. Rather than just change the setting, they'll now need to authenticate using their screen lock and select an option confirming that have not been pressured to change security settings (for example, by a scammer).

More significantly, they'll then have to restart their device and wait a full day. At this point they'll have to return to the settings screen and confirm whether they want to permanently change the setting to allow sideloading or only enable it for seven days. (Source: androidauthority.com)

The new rules will start in some countries at the end of September and then roll out in all countries next year.

Mixed Messaging

The changes, which Google is presenting as a way to protect against scams such as people being tricked into installing malware, seem a little counterintuitive. Google recently followed a US court order to allow competing app stores on Android phones.

Somewhat confusingly that new system means the user must first download the app store itself from Google Play. They'll have to explicitly grant an "Install Unknown Apps" permission. Once the new app store is installed, the user should be able to use it to download and install apps, including some which are not available in Google Play. (Source: androidauthority.com)

What's Your Opinion?

Do you think a 24-hour wait is a reasonable way to protect users from scams? Have you ever needed to sideload an app on your smartphone? Should tech companies have the power to restrict how you install software on your own device?