Google is making Android more secure by cracking down on low-quality apps in the Play Store, narrowing the security gap between Android and iOS. With Android 15, new features like AI-based malicious app detection and cellular network defense are rolling out.
But one standout change is the Play Storeโs approach to removing low-quality apps, improving both security and user experience.
The Play Store is introducing warnings for apps flagged as low quality, based on metrics like high uninstall rates, limited user data, or minimal active users.
Instead of blocking downloads outright, these warnings will appear on the appโs detail page, advising users to proceed with caution. This move aligns with Googleโs broader efforts to improve app quality and safeguard users.
This strategy builds on a Play Store purge earlier this year that reduced the number of apps significantly. Many of the removed apps were disguised as harmless but served as gateways for malware.
Googleโs push to enforce Androidโs “four quality pillars”โvalue, delight, safety, and device optimizationโfurther strengthens its commitment to a safer ecosystem.
While Androidโs efforts are commendable, sideloading apps remains a vulnerability. Users should avoid flagged low-quality apps unless necessary and always verify their sources.
These updates, along with restrictions from major Android OEMs like Samsung, are closing the gap with Appleโs iOS, but the journey to fully secure Android is ongoing.
