Google Play Store to soon issue warnings if an app will install unknown apps

The Google Play Store which acts as the primary source of the library to download apps and games for both users and developers is now working on a new feature that will issue warnings to users if an app will install other unknown apps.

As many apps pose a security threat to user’s data, thus aiming to keep the user informed, tech giant Google is preparing itself to let users know apps when an app will install other unknown apps. We believe with this feature Google attempts to close down a potential attack, instead of just sideloading apps on Android.

In the earlier versions of Android viz. Android 9 Pie, Google killed the universal toggle which allows the installation of apps from outside of the Google Play Store. Instead, users are required to grant permission to every app that tries to queue an additional APK for installation when such APK does not originate from the Play Store. For instance, the Fortnite game is available on Android but is users are required to download the Fortnite Installer from Epic Games’ website and then grant Chrome necessary permissions to sideload the Installer APK in order to queue the installation.

The company is also testing a new Incognito Mode setting.

Recently, Google introduced a new ‘Play Pass’ subscription service, which gives you access to over 350 apps and games that are completely unlocked, meaning they are all free of ads, in-app purchases, and upfront payments. The Google Play Pass offers titles from Stardew Valley to AccuWeather, with new apps and games added every month. So, where is the catch? Google will charge a monthly fee.

The Play Pass service is initially available to Android devices in the US this week, and Google plans to bring it to additional countries soon. Google is also offering a 10-day free trial and you can subscribe for just $4.99 per month. Google is also offering Play Pass for only $1.99/month for your first twelve months, then $4.99/month, for a limited period.