Credit: Nick Fernandez / Android AuthorityGoogle will soon block the sideloading of apps from unregistered developers.Many emulator devs want to remain anonymous to avoid legal liability.This may mean popular PS2, Switch, and PS3 emulators will no longer be available.Yesterday Google announced a new program to keep Android devices safe, but it may have huge unintended consequences for emulation on Android. In an effort to keep users safe from scams and malware, Google will require developers to verify their identity before their apps can be installed on Android devices, even outside of the Play Store, starting in September 2026.While some emulator developers have registered their identities to list their apps on the Play Store, sideloading remains an important part of the Android emulation scene. Popular emulators for the Nintendo Switch, PS3, and even PS2 require sideloading. Others have outdated versions listed on the Play Store, so you need to sideload for the latest features.