Tim
After a pretty short stint on Google Play, the CyanogenMod Installer app has been completely removed voluntarily by the CM team, after being told by the Google Play team that the app was in violation of certain developer terms. While the app is essentially harmless, Google’s issue is that it directs users to void device warranties by unlocking bootloaders and flashing third-party software, which is apparently shunned by Android’s maker. This was an issue that was brought up by users when the app first launched, but apparently nothing was done about it.
CyanogenMod published a full post on what happened exactly with the Google Play team, but here’s the most important part from what they said.
After reaching out to the Play team, their feedback was that though application itself is harmless, and not actually in violation of their Terms of Service, since it ‘encourages users to void their warranty’, it would not be allowed to remain in the store.
According to the team, they are now reaching out to Amazon and Samsung to publish their Installer app to the companies’ respective app markets.
Update: Cyanogen Inc. has updated the original post on their blog and it is has been made clear that they were in direct violation of Google Play’s Terms of Service, not just minor developers terms.
The question is, do we think Google is doing the right thing? With thousands upon thousands of downloads, it’s clear people want the app. Should Google have let this slide? How successful can Cyanogen Inc be without Google Play support? Let’s hear your opinion down below.
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