You won't be able to install apps built for Android Marshmallow on your smartphone running Android 15

If you’re used to sideloading old apps, Android 15 might put a stop to that. Google’s taking a firm stance on app security, and soon, your Pixel and other Android phones might reject apps designed for the bygone era of Android Marshmallow.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow (released in 2015) was a game-changer for Android security. It introduced the now-familiar system where apps ask for permissions like your camera or microphone when you use them, rather than getting free rein at install time. It was a necessary move against shady apps with bad intentions.

Starting with Android 14, the operating system itself started blocking users from sideloading apps targeting ancient Android versions. Now, Android 15 seems poised to be even stricter. As discovered by Mishaal Rahman on Android Police, attempting to sideload an app built for Android 6.0 Marshmallow results in an error message.

This shouldn’t be a huge surprise. Both the Google Play Store and Android itself have been gradually raising the required minimum SDK version for years, pushing developers to stay up-to-date with security and privacy features.

Say goodbye to sideloading oldies: If you rely on sideloading very old apps built for Marshmallow or below, those might not work on your Pixel (and other devices) once Android 15 arrives.

Developers need to adapt: It serves as a strong reminder for developers to keep their apps updated to avoid getting left behind and compromising their users’ security.

Enhanced security for all: While there’s a tiny bit of flexibility sacrificed, this ultimately raises the security bar for the entire Android ecosystem.

If you absolutely must use an outdated app, there’s a technical workaround using ADB commands (refer to the AP article for details). However, proceed with extreme caution, as old apps can pose security risks.

Let me know in the comments below if you have any favorite apps that might be too old to run on Android 15!