Google has started gradually making it more difficult to install apps bypassing official stores by adding a mandatory 24‑hour pause. Downloading APKs from unverified sources now requires going through an extended installation process. The user needs to open the developer settings and manually activate the relevant permission, after which the system will display a warning. It won’t be possible to complete the procedure immediately.

Enabling the option starts a one‑time waiting period of 24 hours, and you can only confirm your decision after this period has elapsed, by returning to the same settings page. Next, the gadget owner has a choice of 2 options: the permission can be left active indefinitely, or it can be enabled temporarily for 7 days, after which it will be automatically disabled.

The mechanism is distributed via a separate system app, Android Developer Verifier, which is delivered to devices in stages. Mandatory developer verification will start on September 30 in several countries, and will become global over the next year. Key exceptions to the new rules include installation via ADB from a connected computer via the debug bridge, which is not restricted in any way; apps from Google Play, RuStore, and other major stores continue to work as before; well‑known software creators who have passed free verification do not face delays; and small developers can deploy their apps on a limited number of devices — up to 20 — without verification.

The innovation is intended to protect smartphone owners from fraudulent schemes and accidental downloads of malicious software. It is the third‑party installation of APK files that remains the main channel for the spread of banking Trojans and fake clients of popular services. According to Google’s plan, the 24‑hour pause will give users time to think through their decision and verify the source of the downloaded app, which will reduce the number of successful attacks via phishing websites and suspicious links.