One UI 6.1.1 Auto Blocker bans app sideloading on Samsung phones

Samsung devices have Google Play Store and Galaxy Store to download apps. With the new One UI 6.1.1, Samsung disabled app sideloading by default. It bans custom APK installation, however, the feature can be disabled to bypass sideload restriction.

One UI 6.1.1 upgrades Auto Blocker with app sideloading restriction. Users of the newest Galaxy foldables and tablets are barred from installing apps out of Play or Galaxy Store. It’s a security-centric decision inspired by Google’s approach to kill sideloading.

Android phones support APK installation files. General Samsung users only use Google Play or Galaxy Store to get new apps and games. However, some apps are not listed on the official app market given policy-related reasons.

Google doesn’t approve some useful apps that go beyond the allowed functionalities. App developers create many useful apps with nifty functions, usable for free. In the lack of a Play Store listing, the APK files are distributed in other ways.

Installing an application from an unauthorized source is dangerous. Non-tech-savvy users could opt for an unsecured application, which would compromise privacy and security. Given privacy concerns, Samsung may have disabled app sideloading by default.

Google has already blocked app sideload on Android at the OS level. To install an APK file manually, the user is required to allow some permissions. The prompt also screens warnings related to potential issues such as privacy and security compromises.

Samsung upgraded Auto Blocker to ban APK installs on Galaxy devices. Galaxy users can only use Play Store and Galaxy Store to install new apps or update existing ones. When you install an APK, the feature will decline your request through a pop-up.

Auto Blocker can be disabled to unlock APK installation on Galaxy. To alter (enable/disable) Auto Blocker functionality in your Samsung Galaxy, head towards Settings > Security and privacy > Auto Blocker.