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.

( 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.