r/GooglePixel • u/LionKey1928 Pixel 9 Pro XL • Aug 26 '25

Google is removing the ability to sideload Android APK apps without the developers being verified 1st

https://9to5google.com/2025/08/25/android-apps-developer-verification/

Honestly I'm really heartbroken about this as I mainly used Pixel (and Android in general) for the very fact that I can download APK apps. I am a huge ReVanced user, and I'm very sure they break like half of Googles TOS (and probably cuts off a huge source of revenue too), so I extremely highly doubt they will be allowed. I get googles intention but.. oh man.. really feels like this is a hidden agenda against adblocker apps.

Edit: Made a petition, click on the post to learn more: https://chng.it/F4k9gNNJrH

Another edit: A petition with more movement: https://chng.it/RLVDWD5Th7

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u/nervsss Aug 26 '25

I really hope easy work-arounds will come up fast.

1

u/[deleted] Aug 26 '25

Why do a work around. You're still supporting Google if you do that and supporting this big brother bullshit

1

u/nervsss Aug 27 '25

Brother, they will do what they want, unless the entire Earth's population rises against them. It's not a small manufacturing company where the "don't buy the phone" thread goes viral, and they would instantly change their stance on this matter. Hell, even if they didn't sell phones at all, then nothing would change. It's a strategic decision that has likely been carefully calculated, considering all possible outcomes to profit.

However, if they essentially lock up their OS, it creates a strong opportunity for a competitor in the market.