verification Archives

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Google to Mandate Developer Identity Verification for All Android App Distribution by 2026

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AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google will block sideloading of unverified Android apps starting next year

Google will require only apps with verified identities to be installable on certified Android devices starting in October, with early access testing for developers. The streamlined Android Developer Console will be available by March 2026, and the feature will launch in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand by September 2026. A broader global rollout is uncertain, with potential expansion in 2027. This change is partly in response to an antitrust case and will necessitate the distribution of third-party app stores and rehosting of Play Store content on alternative platforms. The enforcement of an installation whitelist could enhance security but may also give Google more control over the app market. Documentation on the consequences of installing non-verified apps and verification processes is currently limited.

AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google will require developer verification for Android apps outside the Play Store

Google is enhancing security measures for Android app distribution by verifying developer identities, starting next year. This initiative will affect all certified Android devices globally, with a phased rollout. Developers can still distribute apps through alternative app stores or sideloading, but anonymity will be reduced to combat malware and fraud. Google reported that sideloaded apps encounter over 50 times more malware than those on the Google Play Store, where developer verification has been required since 2023. Developers can sign up for early access in October 2025, with full verification expected by March 2026. By September 2026, apps installed in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand must comply, with a global rollout in 2027. Developers will need to provide their legal name, address, email, and phone number, which may lead some to register as businesses for privacy. Google will also offer a tailored Android Developer Console account for student and hobbyist developers.

AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google Android Developer Identity Verification Policy 2026 – News and Statistics

Google will require all developers distributing Android applications outside of the Play Store to undergo identity verification starting globally in 2026. This policy aims to reduce malware threats and enhance user data protection. The verification process will begin with an early access program in October 2025, followed by mandatory verification in March 2026, initially enforced in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a wider rollout expected in 2027. Developers must provide their legal name, address, email, and phone number. Google will also create a separate account type for student and hobbyist developers. The Play Store has required developer verification since 2023.

AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google will require developer verification to install Android apps, including sideloading

Starting in 2026, Google will only allow applications from verified developers to be installed on certified Android devices. This requirement targets certified Android devices with Play Protect and preloaded Google applications, extending to all installation methods, including third-party app stores and sideloading. The verification process will begin in October for select developers, with a wider rollout planned for March 2026. The requirement will take effect in September 2026 for users in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, and will be implemented globally in 2027. Google has received positive feedback from various government authorities regarding this initiative.

AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google wants to make sideloading Android apps safer by verifying developers’ identities

Google is implementing a new "developer verification requirement" for all Android apps distributed outside the Google Play Store to enhance user security and accountability. Only users with certified Android devices will be prevented from installing apps from unverified developers. Developers must authenticate their identities through a new Android Developer Console, providing their legal name, address, email, phone number, and, for organizations, a website and D-U-N-S number. A separate account type with fewer requirements will be created for hobbyist and student developers. The rollout will begin with an early access program in October 2025, full implementation in March 2026, and initial requirements taking effect in September 2026 for users in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand.

AppWizard

August 21, 2025

Minecraft snapshot 25w34b explained: New features and updates | Esports News

Minecraft snapshot 25w34b introduces a new code of conduct feature that allows server administrators to create customized guidelines for players to accept before joining. Key changes include a new main menu background, longer sound delay for end light flashes, rebranding of the "Hide Lightning Flashes" setting to "Hide Sky Flash," and adjustments to the copper golem's hitbox and visibility. Players can hear copper golems and copper chests from 12 blocks away, and the sound associated with copper sorting has been softened. Bug fixes in this snapshot address various issues, including: - Resolved overflow of world names, versions, and timestamps in the world selection screen. - Fixed item frames and glow item frames not adjusting their hitbox when containing a map. - Addressed water and lava dripping from barriers. - Corrected glitches in the fletching table and issues with command execution across dimensions. - Ensured proper functionality of the statistics screen and command block interface. - Fixed various sound and visual issues related to copper golems and other entities. - Resolved problems with player spawn locations and ownership of arrows in multiplayer. - Corrected ambient sound issues and improved the drop rate of sweet berries.

AppWizard

August 21, 2025

Google is expanding a key anti-theft feature to make your apps more secure

Android's Identity Check feature will be enhanced in the Android 16 QPR2 update, requiring biometric-only authentication for apps using the biometric prompt, eliminating screen lock credentials as a fallback. This aims to improve security for sensitive applications by preventing unauthorized access, particularly in untrusted environments. The update expands Identity Check to more applications, ensuring that access necessitates biometric verification. Users can activate this feature through Settings on their Pixel devices. Future updates may allow the use of a smartwatch as a trusted unlock mechanism, bypassing biometric authentication when connected.

AppWizard

August 20, 2025

One of 2025’s Biggest Steam Games Now Steam Deck Verified

Dune: Awakening, a survival MMO developed by Funcom, received Steam Deck Verified status two months after its release on June 10, 2025. The game initially attracted 189,333 concurrent users and currently has a fluctuating player base between 20,000 and 47,000. It ranks among the most-played games on Steam this year and is 87th on the all-time concurrent players chart. The game has a “Mostly Positive” rating on Steam, with 74% of 37,547 user reviews favorable, though recent feedback has shifted to a “Mixed” rating with only 53% approval due to player impatience regarding new content. Funcom has implemented updates since launch and provided a roadmap for future developments.

AppWizard

August 19, 2025

Nexon investigating The First Descendant TikTok ads

Nexon is investigating advertisements for its upcoming game, The First Descendant, due to suspicions of AI-generated content. The inquiry was prompted by a Reddit post highlighting TikTok ads that appeared to use AI elements, including one featuring influencer DanieltheDemon, who claimed his likeness was used without consent. Nexon acknowledged concerns about the production of some videos and is collaborating with TikTok for a thorough investigation. They expressed regret for the delay in communication and promised updates once the review is complete.