Google will make it easier for Android users to install alternative app stores on their devices. The update, which will be available in Android 12, will allow third-party stores to install and update apps without requiring user permission.

According to XDA Developers, this is an effort to make Android a little easier to use for those who want to switch from the Play Store or use alternative app stores for specific purposes.

It would be foolish not to ignore the context of what is currently happening in the Apple v. Epic Games lawsuit, in which Apple is criticizing Epic for not allowing it to keep all the money it gets from in-app purchases. Lawyers are also arguing in court about Apple's refusal to allow third-party stores; Epic is also in trouble with Google over a similar issue, so perhaps it is natural to assume that this will deflect criticism.

If Google is moving to accept these third-party stores, it will probably put extra pressure on Apple. Depending on the court verdict, is this what the judge will require? It's hard to say, but whatever decision is reached will have far-reaching implications for all hardware companies, including Sony and Microsoft.

On Android phones, third-party app stores have always been an option; you may have installed something from Amazon or from numerous other sources. The risks of third-party app stores vary depending on their manufacturer, from relatively small ones to ones that are used to mine cryptocurrencies while not in use.

However, this is not a security bypass. Users must agree to allow these stores to update their apps without their permission. Google may also require that these stores be checked by an in-house team for the purpose of mitigating the risk to users.