Android smartphone users must have the Google Play Store app, since it’s the preferred source for apps, games, and other content. Google announced several updates to the Play Store in late July, including the previously detailed Interests filter to generate better app suggestions. In the Play Store settings, it appears that Google is working on another filter to prevent certain types of apps from being installed.
Android Authority and code researcher AssembleDebug found a new toggle in Play Store version 43.7.19-31. This toggle lets users “filter apps that link to external apps.” When turned on, these apps won’t show up in your recommendations or search results.
While Google hasn’t officially explained the feature yet, it seems to focus on security. The filter could help users avoid apps that contain links opening in other applications, which might pose potential security risks.
This update might be connected to recent legal developments. In early October, a federal judge ordered Google to allow third-party app stores on Android. Though Google won some time through an appeal, this filter might have been developed as a response to these legal changes.
Currently, there’s no confirmed release date for this new filter. While the code exists in the latest Play Store version, the feature isn’t working yet. Users will need to wait for Google’s official announcement and rollout.
