The one-step installer for CyanogenMod – an open-source, modified form of Android that adds functionality to an Android handset – has been pulled from the Play Store by Google, on the ground that it does not offer a simple ‘revert’ option as required by the store’s terms & conditions. Google argues this means it violates the warranty terms of handsets.
Today, we were contacted by the Google Play Support team to say that our CyanogenMod Installer application is in violation of Google Play’s developer terms.
They advised us to voluntarily remove the application, or they would be forced to remove it administratively. We have complied with their wishes while we wait for a more favorable resolution.
CynanogenMod allows you to replace the manufacturer or carrier firmware with a custom version that allows you to over-clock the CPU and do a whole bunch of things you might not be able to do otherwise, like wifi & Bluetooth tethering, and playing music in the FLAC lossless format …
Installation normally takes several steps in a process known as sideloading, but CyanogenMod added a much simpler one-step installer to the Play Store earlier this month. It’s this installer that Google has pulled.
CyanogenMod says that it will “wait for a more favorable resolution,” but we wouldn’t suggest holding your breath. In the meantime, CyanogenMod is submitting the Installer app to the Amazon and Samsung app stores.
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