We’re rolling out the advanced flow for installing apps from unverified developers
Hi everyone,
Today we are rolling out the first version of the [advanced flow](
https://android-developers.googleblog.com/2026/03/android-developer-verification.html). The advanced flow gives power users the option to install unregistered apps (i.e. apps from developers who choose not to verify their identity) on certified Android devices without the use of ADB.
As a brief recap, Android will require all apps to be registered by verified developers in order for users to install them on certified Android devices. Developer verification links real-world entities with their Android applications, making it much harder for malicious actors to quickly distribute more harmful apps after we take the first one down.
Since verification launched in March, millions of apps have been registered already, covering nearly all installs on Google Play and a large majority of installs from outside of Google Play. Thus, most users’ experience of installing Android apps will not change at all. However, we recognize that some developers are choosing not to undergo verification and that some power users want the option to install apps from these developers, so we’re rolling out the first version of the advanced flow to provide this additional option.
https://preview.redd.it/vawq5jtsc6kh1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=e1b305870b93d16e20dc5d4c676b44c79d9e250c# When will Android developer verification be enforced?
We will initially verify app installations from Google Play, HONOR App Market, OPPO App Market, Galaxy Store, Palm Store, V-Appstore, and GetApps starting September 30, 2026 for users of certified Android devices in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. In 2027, we will expand verification globally for all app installations on certified Android devices.
https://preview.redd.it/9azwimssc6kh1.png?width=2048&format=png&auto=webp&s=37ca1f1fa01bc6566762ada7d5b8cf07fa8e467cAhead of the enforcement of developer verification, we’re rolling out the first version of the advanced flow so power users can choose to enable it early ahead of general availability. We’re still working to polish it, so please share your feedback with us!
# Enabling the advanced flow for installing apps from unverified developers
***Note:*** *The advanced flow is:*
* **NOT** required for installing registered apps from app stores.
* **NOT** required for installing registered apps through alternative sources, such as websites, messaging apps, or file hosting services.
* **NOT** required for installing apps from developers using [limited distribution accounts](
https://developer.android.com/developer-verification/guides/limited-distribution).
* **NOT** required for installing apps using ADB.
* **ONLY** needed to install unregistered apps (i.e., apps from developers who choose not to verify their identity) without the use of ADB.
**Important**: Enabling the advanced flow is a **one-time process** that will take 24 hours to complete and includes safeguards to help ensure you are not being coerced or pressured into turning off protections.
1. Open **Developer Options** and locate “**Apps from unverified developers**.”
2. On this page, you will find the “**Allow apps from unverified developers**” toggle. (*Note: To protect against malicious apps automating this flow without your knowledge, Android will ask for your screen lock to confirm it’s you.*)
3. Android will ask whether someone is asking you to turn on this setting. Read the warning before continuing. (*Note:* *This warning exists to inform users that legitimate employees of government agencies, law enforcement agencies, banks, or other businesses will never ask them to turn on this setting in order to install an app.)*
4. **Restart your phone** to start the one-time, 24-hour waiting period.
