As announced a couple of weeks ago, power users always have an option to enable sideloading of unregistered APK files through an advanced flow that requires an authentication step to confirm they are taking this step of their own volition and a one-off, 24-hour waiting period to deter scammers.
Sure. That’s the reason why they’re introducing a 24-hour delay. Not because they want to make it miserable so people stop side loading.
You know what. Fuck Linda Park, fuck this ass-kissing Google loving article. “designed to protect users from malicious software and scams” and the article keeps this tone throughout. This is not about protecting users! It’s about tightening the grip on control of the app ecosystem.
Consider android authoritys article https://www.androidauthority.com/google-android-sideloading-unverified-apps-new-rules-3650343/
That at least has a little survey where you can express your take on this change
If you want a better perspective of the real impact of this for devs :
https://www.theregister.com/2026/02/24/google_android_developer_verification_plan/