Google has implemented changes to Android sideloading that enable carry-over functionality for apps installed outside the Play Store. The Android Authority article states the update improves the experience for users sideloading APKs by allowing data and settings continuity (https://www.androidauthority.com/android-sideload-carry-over-3652845/).

This follows Android 14 and 15 security adjustments for sideloaded apps and Google's March 2024 DMA compliance measures in the EU that reduced sideloading barriers (https://www.theverge.com/24091350/google-android-eu-dma-sideloading).

Ars Technica previously reported on Google's incremental sideloading security features that maintain Play Protect scanning while expanding user options (https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/05/android-15-sideloading/).