No More Free Sideloading

Google is cracking down on sideloading. Starting in 2026, only apps from verified developers can be installed on certified Android devices, rolling out globally by 2027. Google says sideloaded apps are 50x more likely to contain malware, so this move is about identity verification to protect users.

Meanwhile, Amazon Fire TV and Fire Tablets let you clear app cache through Settings → Applications → Manage Installed Apps, and Fire TV Sticks may even auto-clear unused app caches to free space and improve performance.