Starting in September 2026, Google plans to introduce new rules for installing apps on Android devices from sources outside the Google Play Store, a process known as sideloading. These changes aim to make Android safer by ensuring that apps come from verified developers, but they might affect how users and developers interact with sideloaded apps.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s coming and what it means for you.Google’s new system, called the Android Developer Verifier, will check if an app comes from a developer who has registered with Google through the Android Developer Console. This is different from the current Play Protect system, which is part of the Play Store.

If a developer isn’t verified, their app may be blocked from being installed on your Android device. This move is designed to protect users from harmful apps or scams, but it could limit the freedom to install apps from unofficial sources, which has always been a key feature of Android.

For users, this could mean fewer options for sideloading apps, especially for those who rely on apps not available on the Play Store, like certain emulators or niche tools. However, there’s a possible workaround: users might be able to bypass the restriction by disabling the Android Developer Verifier, though this isn’t confirmed yet.

For developers, particularly those who prefer anonymity—like some emulator creators—these rules could make it harder to share their apps outside the Play Store, as they’ll need to verify their identity with Google. On another note, Google was reportedly exploring the use of its Gemini AI to improve search within the Android Settings app.

This feature would make it easier to find settings by using AI to understand your search terms, but it’s unclear if or when it will roll out. These changes show Google’s focus on balancing security with Android’s open nature. While sideloading won’t disappear, it will likely become more regulated, potentially impacting how you use your Android device. Stay tuned for updates as these changes get closer.

Samsung is gearing up to release One UI 8 Beta 7 for its Galaxy S25 series, a step closer to the stable version of this Android 16-based software. The stable rollout is set to begin in September 2025, starting with the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra.

After that, other devices like the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Z Flip 6 will follow in late September, with more devices, including the Galaxy S23 series and select A-series phones, expected to get it by November.

The Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, and S25 FE already come with the stable One UI 8 pre-installed. While exact dates aren’t confirmed, the schedule seems on track, though delays could happen based on testing feedback. Keep your device updated and check the Samsung Members app for beta sign-ups or official announcements.

One UI 8 brings smoother performance, a cleaner design, and new features like improved Galaxy AI tools, including Audio Eraser and Now Brief. However, one feature fans miss is Good Lock’s NotiStar Labs tool, which let users keep specific notifications pinned in the notification panel.

This feature, available in One UI 7 (Android 15), is missing in One UI 8. A moderator confirmed it won’t return soon but is planned for One UI 9, based on Android 17, expected in 2026. Samsung may also bring it back in One UI 8.5, set to launch with the Galaxy S26 series early next year.

For now, Galaxy users can look forward to a polished One UI 8 experience with enhanced security, thanks to the September 2025 patch included in the beta. If you’re in the beta program, share feedback to help Samsung refine the software. Stay tuned for more updates as the stable release nears.

Samsung is gearing up to launch its next flagship, the Galaxy S26 Ultra, and recent leaks are giving us a sneak peek at what’s coming. The phone is expected to bring a fresh design and some camera improvements, making it a device to watch out for when it debuts early next year.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra will likely have a more comfortable feel in your hand, thanks to its smoother, more rounded corners. Unlike the sharper edges of older models, Samsung started softening the corners with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Now, the S26 Ultra takes it a step further, with even rounder edges for a better grip.

The phone is also expected to be slightly bigger, measuring about 163.4mm tall and 77.9mm wide, compared to the S25 Ultra’s 162.8mm by 77.6mm. It might also feature a slightly larger screen, giving you a bit more display to enjoy. On the camera front, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is set to keep its impressive quad-camera setup.

It will likely include a 200-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 50-megapixel telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The big news is a new 12-megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, replacing the older model. While most of the camera specs stay the same as the S25 Ultra, this new 3x zoom lens is a notable upgrade, promising sharper and clearer shots from a distance.

Beyond design and cameras, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is expected to pack a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chip for faster performance and support quicker charging. These changes show Samsung’s focus on refining the phone’s look and feel while boosting its photography game.

As the launch approaches, likely in February 2026, fans are eager to see how these updates will make the S26 Ultra stand out in the crowded smartphone market.