Google’s Tight Grip on Android: A Step Toward Monopoly?

Google is set to follow in Apple’s footsteps, with plans to block app sideloading on Android devices by 2026. 

With over 3.6 billion users and a commanding 73.9% global market share, this move marks one of the most significant shifts in Android’s history. After a closer look, I discovered that this decision comes with both strengths and flaws — offering better protection but also raising questions about Android’s long-standing promise of openness.

History of Android

Before diving into Google’s latest move, let’s take a quick look back at Android’s origins.

Android was founded in 2003 by Andy Rubin, Chris White, and Nick Sears, initially envisioned as an operating system for digital cameras. However, its potential soon expanded far beyond that. In 2005, Google recognized this promise and acquired Android for $50 million, setting the stage for a mobile revolution.

A few years later, Google launched the Open Handset Alliance (OHA) — a collaboration of major industry players including Samsung, HTC, Motorola, and several others. The alliance brought together handset manufacturers, chip makers, network operators, and software developers with one shared goal: to build a truly open-source mobile platform.

That vision of openness defined Android for nearly two decades — until now, as Google prepares to redefine what “open” means in the Android ecosystem.

Introducing an open-source platform was a bold move at the time, especially in a market dominated by Nokia, BlackBerry, Windows Mobile, and Apple. Android’s open nature gave manufacturers and developers the freedom to innovate — a stark contrast to the closed systems of its rivals. Over the years, this flexibility became one of Android’s greatest strengths.

Today, most of those once-dominant brands have faded into history, leaving Apple’s iOS as Android’s only true competitor. And there’s no doubt — Android’s open-source success story played a major role in reshaping the entire smartphone industry. 

Open source means that the software’s code — the instructions that make it work — is publicly available. It simply means, anyone can see, modify, use, and share that code freely. That allowed developers around the world to improve the software, fix bugs, or add additional features without needing special permission.

For example, Android is open source, which means smartphone makers like Samsung or Xiaomi can customize it to create their own versions — something you can’t do with Apple’s iOS, which is closed source and controlled only by Apple. 

Let’s see what the strengths of having a closed-source OS are.

Google has officially confirmed that it plans to ban sideloading on Android devices, but the move isn’t as straightforward as it sounds — there’s a significant twist.

The tech giant revealed that it will introduce a new developer console aimed at giving app creators more control over external installations. Under this system, when a user downloads an app from outside the Google Play Store, the developer will receive a notification to verify the app’s authenticity. This process will help determine whether the app is legitimate or potentially unsafe.

According to Google, internal studies show that most malware infections on Android come from sideloaded apps. To address this, Google took a step that marks a major shift toward a more controlled and secure Android ecosystem.

What are the weaknesses of having a Closed-Source OS are.

Just like Apple’s iOS, Google now appears to be steering Android toward becoming a closed-source operating system. With this shift, many users may soon lose access to the freedom that once defined Android — including the ability to install MOD APKs or flash Custom ROMs.

As an Android enthusiast myself, I’ve always enjoyed experimenting with these on my Xiaomi Redmi K20 Pro, but this upcoming change could mark the end of that era of customization and openness.

If I’m not mistaken, that freedom was exactly what made Android stand out from iOS. Losing it feels like a major setback for Android users, especially for those who love customization. Personally, I see it as a big loss — I was really looking forward to flashing custom ROMs on my Xiaomi 15.

Conclution

In conclusion, Google’s decision to phase out sideloading by 2026 marks a turning point in Android’s history. What began as an open-source platform built on freedom and customization is now evolving into a more controlled and security-focused ecosystem. While this move may disappoint enthusiasts who love experimenting with MOD APKs and Custom ROMs, it also promises a safer and more unified Android experience for billions of users worldwide.

This shift reflects Google’s attempt to strike a delicate balance — protecting users from growing security threats while maintaining the spirit of innovation that made Android what it is today. Whether this change strengthens or limits Android’s identity remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Android’s next chapter will redefine what openness truly means in the modern mobile era.