One UI 6.1.1 blocks sideloading of apps 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), sideloading apps is not allowed by default. However, you can change this setting if you want.

Auto Blocker is a One UI feature designed to protect your device 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 feature in One UI 6.1.1, adding more capabilities.

App downloads are not available by default on Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 models

Automatic sideloading app blocker is making its debut on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. There’s a dedicated page that pops up when you first set up your phone. The page shows you the things that Auto Blocker can respond to, now including the “Blocks apps” entry. You can skip this page, either by accident or because you’re in a hurry. If you do, sideloading apps from APK files won’t be available on your Galaxy phone by default. The following error message will pop up every time you tap on an APK file.

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

That said, for more experienced users, this option can be a bit annoying. Fortunately, even if you skip the initial setup page, you can disable Auto Blocker in your phone’s Settings. Just go to Settings > Security & Privacy > Auto Blocker, then tap the toggle.

New Maximum Restrictions option for more security

Interestingly, there’s another new Auto Blocker option called “Maximum Restrictions.” Its name and description suggest it’ll block both APK installation and downloads, among other things. It’s 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’ll have to be more careful about the initial setup of your device.