The Google Play Store is preparing new badges to avoid unpleasant surprises

Google wants to make it easier to choose reliable apps on Android. New badges will appear in the Play Store to indicate the most verified apps. At the same time, the security system against malicious applications will expand.

Finding a good app on Android can sometimes seem like an obstacle course. Between poorly designed apps, dubious copies, and insecure services, it's not always easy to navigate. To avoid unpleasant surprises, Google regularly updates its Play Store rules and offers tools to help users better identify reliable programs. These efforts aim to strengthen security without compromising the freedom offered by Android.

Today, the company is announcing new measures to further improve this selection. Google plans to introduce new badges to the Play Store. These icons already allow users to identify certain official apps, such as certified VPNs or public services. The program will expand to other categories to highlight apps that meet stricter verification criteria. This will make it easier for users to sort through the thousands of available options.

Google will expand Play Store badges and strengthen security Against Malicious Financial Apps

At the same time, Google is continuing its efforts to protect users from apps installed manually outside the Play Store (known as sideloaded). Since 2023, a pilot program launched in Singapore has automatically blocked suspicious apps, particularly in the financial sector. These fraudulent apps may attempt to steal banking data or steal identities. The detection system will be extended to other countries, although the regions concerned have not yet been clarified.

Google also wants to simplify developers' lives. New checks will be added when an app is submitted, to detect potential compliance issues earlier. At the same time, developers will receive more information about policy changes, to avoid last-minute modifications. These technical adjustments may not be visible to users, but they contribute to a more stable, secure, and clearer ecosystem for everyone.