Google: “Based on this feedback and our ongoing conversations with the community, we are building a new advanced flow that allows experienced users to accept the risks of installing software that isn’t verified. We are designing this flow specifically to resist coercion, ensuring that users aren’t tricked into bypassing these safety checks while under pressure from a scammer. It will also include clear warnings to ensure users fully understand the risks involved, but ultimately, it puts the choice in their hands.”

Thank god. I would’ve ditched Android for good if this went through, and while it sounds like it would be annoying for casual users to enable unverified apps, at least we can still install them.

  • balsoft@lemmy.ml
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    3 hours ago

    My bet is that they will just remove the GUI settings for alternative APK installation sources, and require you to explicitly allow them via terminal (adb shell or similar). This will probably scare off 99% of regular users, while keeping devs relatively happy. The end result (making it harder to install FOSS and pirated software) will still be achieved.

      • balsoft@lemmy.ml
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        2 hours ago

        That feels too easy for the requirements they’re announcing, no? It just adds like 12 taps to scammer’s instructions, 10 of which is the taps to show developer menu.