There is a very useful tool for every developer creating Android apps…. Google’s Play Integrity API! It’s a tool that helps developers ensure their apps run on legitimate Android devices, and it’s now been updated with a feature designed to curb the practice of sideloading apps. The Sideloading refers to the installation of applications from sources other than the official Google Play Store, a practice often favored by tech-savvy users who want more control over their devices. However, sideloading can also present risks, such as exposing users to malware or jeopardizing the app’s functionality.
These major concerns are addressed by the Play Integrity API by verifying that an app has not been compromised and is running in a secure environment. If the API detects any irregularity, it can trigger certain actions within the app, such as blocking access or asking the user to install the app from the Play Store.
A recent API update introduced a new feature called “GET_LICENSED”, recovery dialog. This dialog appears when the API determines that the user has not installed the app from the Play Store. It prompts the user to download the app from the official store to continue using it. If the user agrees, the sidebar version of the app is uninstalled and replaced with the Play Store version.
While developers had ways to detect sideloading apps before this update, the new feature simplifies the process. While it’s still too early to tell how widespread adoption this feature will be, it’s likely to appeal to developers of games and other apps who want to protect their intellectual property and ensure a consistent user experience.
Let’s just say that the Play Integrity API is already used by many popular apps, including Stripe, Uber και TikTok, and its adoption is expected to increase. As Google continues to improve and augment the API, it is poised to play an increasingly important role in shaping the Android app landscape, prioritizing both security and user experience.
Source: myphone.gr
