One UI 6.1.1 blocks app sideloading by default on Galaxy devices

One UI 6.1.1 brings some changes related to security and privacy. Now, starting with the latest Galaxy phones (Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6), app sideloading is not allowed by default. However, you can change this setting if you wish.

Auto Blocker is a One UI feature designed to keep the device safe from malicious files or USB hacking attempts. It has been available since the Android 14-based One UI 6 update. However, the company has improved the option in One UI 6.1.1 with more capabilities.

App sideloading not available by default on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6

The automatic app sideloading lock is debuting on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. There’s a dedicated page that will appear during your phone’s initial setup. The page shows the items that Auto Blocker can act on, now including a “Blocks apps” entry. You may skip this page, either accidentally or because you’re in a hurry. In this case, the app sideloading from APKs will not be available on your Galaxy phone by default. You’ll get the error message below every time you tap in an APK file.

This security and privacy option can be quite useful in certain cases. For example, for people who surf the Internet carelessly. There are malicious websites that even try to trigger the automatic download of a malware-infected APK file. Depending on the browser, the user will receive a warning about a potential “harmful file” as a first layer of security. However, if somehow the download completes, Auto Blocker will be there to protect the device.

That said, for more experienced users, the option can be somewhat annoying. Fortunately, even if you skip the initial setup page, you can disable Auto Blocker from your phone’s Settings. You just have to go to Settings > Security and privacy > Auto Blocker, then tap the switch.

New Maximum Restrictions option for more security

Interestingly, there is another new Auto Blocker option called “Maximum Restrictions.” Its name and description suggest that it will block both the installation and downloading of APKs, among other things. It is likely that, starting with the One UI 6.1.1 update, Auto Blocker will prevent app sideloading by default on all compatible Galaxy devices. So, now you will have to be more attentive to the initial setup of your device.