Android 14 Update Could Ban Outdated App Sideloading: Stricter API

Urian B., Tech Times 25 January 2023, 02:01 am

To protect users from using outdated apps with the risk of cyber threats and malware, Google is working on a new feature slated to come with the latest Android 14 update: the ability to block sideloading of outdated apps.

The Next Android OS is Expected to Change How Sideloading Works

According to the story by Giz China, since the launch of Google Play Store in 2012, the tech giant has implemented API requirements on apps, setting a minimum level of API to prevent developers from publishing apps built for old Android versions.

In an article by XDA-Developers, it was highlighted that this policy does not stop users from directly downloading APK files from third-party sources to sideload outdated apps. With the changes to come with the next Android OS, that is about to change.

The New Code Change Will Prevent Outdated Apps from Installing on the Users' Device

As reported by 9to5Google, there will be a code change that will make the API level stricter. This will prevent users from installing any app that does not meet the set API threshold.

Also, third-party stores will not be able to install the aging apps either. What's more, Google will give device manufacturers the option to set the exact number they want to use as a minimum Android version required to be able to install any app.

Android Marshmallow 6 is Now the Minimum Version Users can Install

As of press time, the minimum version is set to 6, Android Marshmallow-but this threshold is expected to be increased with time. The developer responsible for this change has explained that the goal is to reduce the risk of malware for users, as malicious software can often target outdated versions of OS to bypass the improved security of more recent versions.

However, another post revealed that users will still be able to sideload apps through the command shell, but it will not be nearly as simple as before. The first developer preview of Android 14 is expected to be launched in a few weeks, at which point we shall know much more about this feature and other changes to come. Stay tuned for more updates.

Google is Expected to Release Further Information Regarding the Android 14 When It Comes Out

This API is initially set to block all apps that target old Android releases, but Google plans to increase this threshold to Marshmallow 6.0 and eventually beyond. Moreover, phone makers can enable this feature, allowing them to set their own threshold.

Rumors of Google implementing tighter API restrictions with Android 14 have stirred up the Android community. The tech giant is expected to release the first developer preview for the upcoming OS soon.

Google has not yet released all the details on this change but will do so when the first Android 14 developer preview comes out in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for the latest update on this bold new initiative from Google.