Android developer verification is largely targeting commercial developers, with Google saying that it’s “committed to keeping Android an open platform” for student and hobbyist developers. Google is creating a separate Android developer console to facilitate this, which will place restrictions on the number of apps and installs.

Google will soon require all Android app developers to verify their identities, even if they do not list their apps on its Play Store. Currently, those who create “sideloaded” apps, which are downloaded outside the official app marketplace, are exempt from Google’s verification requirements.

Sideloaders face ID checks, fees, and paperwork as Chocolate Factory tightens gates Google will extend developer verification to all Android apps, not just those installed from the Play Store, beginning with Brazil,