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Google confirms 'high-friction' sideloading flow is coming to Android (androidauthority.com)

651 points by _____k · 183 days ago · 732 comments on HN

Article summary

Google has confirmed that a 'high-friction' sideloading flow is coming to Android, which the company claims is intended to educate users about the risks of installing apps from unverified developers. The new flow will involve extra steps to ensure users understand the potential risks, but advanced users will still be able to choose to install apps without verification. The change is seen as a way to balance user freedom with the need to protect users from malicious apps. The exact details of the new workflow have not been specified.

Main themes

  • Android sideloading
  • App security
  • User freedom
  • Google's business strategy
  • Ad-blocking and YouTube
  • Alternative app stores

What commenters say

  • The new sideloading flow may not be as restrictive as expected and could be similar to existing measures on other platforms.
  • The added friction may be intended to discourage users from installing apps from outside the official store, potentially to protect Google's ad revenue.
  • Some users believe that the ability to sideload apps is a key feature of Android and should not be restricted, while others think it poses a security risk.
  • The move is seen as part of a larger trend of Google trying to exert more control over the Android ecosystem and limit user freedom.
  • Alternative app stores and ad-blocking solutions, such as NewPipe and PipePipe, are available and can provide a way for users to avoid ads and install apps from outside the official store.
  • Some users argue that Google's ads are malicious and intrusive, and that blocking them is a reasonable response, while others believe that ads are a necessary part of the ecosystem and that creators need to be paid.
  • The introduction of a 'high-friction' sideloading flow may drive users to seek out alternative platforms or solutions that offer more freedom and flexibility.
  • The move may be an attempt by Google to suppress FOSS alternatives to its ads-overloaded apps and maintain its control over the Android ecosystem.