Podcast, Deep Dive, Episode 1

This article from Android Police explores the impact of Google's new policies on app sideloading in Android 15. The article begins by outlining the history of app sideloading on Android and how it has been a core aspect of the platform. However, the article then focuses on how Google's new policies are changing the landscape of sideloading, making it harder for apps downloaded from outside of the Play Store to access certain permissions, such as SMS and device admin privileges. This shift is described as a move away from the "wild west days" of sideloading and is framed as a way to improve security and user experience. The article then delves into specific examples of how these changes are affecting various aspects of the Android ecosystem, including user complaints about the Pixel 9 series, the rise of third-party launchers, and the anticipation for the upcoming Galaxy S25 series. The article concludes with a discussion of the potential ramifications of these changes, including increased interest in rooting and custom ROMs. The article's purpose is to inform readers about these significant changes in Android, highlighting the potential implications for developers and users alike.