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 teaming up with Google, Microsoft, and Perplexity to add powerful AI features to its devices. The goal is to make its products smarter and more helpful for users. The company plans to have 1 billion AI-powered home devices in the next three years, showing its big focus on artificial intelligence.

Google’s Gemini AI is already working on Samsung phones and tablets, powering features like smart searches and photo editing. Microsoft’s Copilot is also available on Samsung tablets, helping with tasks and productivity. Now, Samsung is expanding its partnerships to include Microsoft and Perplexity for its upcoming TVs with Vision AI.

At the IFA 2025 event, Samsung shared that Copilot and Perplexity AI will be standalone apps on its smart TVs. These apps will let users get information, recommendations, and task support right from their TV screens. Vision AI is a set of smart features, similar to Galaxy AI, designed to make Samsung TVs more interactive.

This move gives users more choices. Instead of being limited to one AI service, people can pick the AI assistant they like best. Samsung isn’t stopping at TVs—it’s also exploring ways to bring Microsoft and Perplexity AI to other devices like phones, tablets, and wearables. For example, Samsung is already working with Perplexity to add its AI assistant to the upcoming Galaxy S26 series, expected in early 2026.

On the software side, Samsung confirmed that the One UI 8 update, based on Android 16, will roll out to Galaxy S25 devices in September 2025. This update will bring smoother animations, better multitasking, improved privacy, and more AI-powered features.

Beta testers will get early access, while others can expect the stable version soon, possibly by September 18.Samsung is also working on new devices, like a TriFold phone, though it may not launch in the U.S. this year. With these partnerships and updates, Samsung is making its devices smarter and more user-friendly, giving people more ways to enjoy AI technology.

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.