(NewsNation) — Google is taking a page out of Apple's book with its latest announcement to tighten security for its devices.
The tech giant revealed Monday that only apps from developers that have undergone verification can be installed on certified Android devices starting next year.
The Google Play Store implemented similar requirements two years ago. However, Google is now mandating the change for all installation methods, including third-party app stores and sideloading.
Google conducted a survey that found that over 50 times more malware came through internet-sideloaded sources as compared to Google Play.
Google says developers will have to provide personal and legal information, which could push independent developers to register as a business for privacy concerns. Interested dev