Google Play Store Dev Policy Updated; Discourages Backdoor Updates For Apps | TechTree.com

Google Play Store Dev Policy Updated; Discourages Backdoor Updates For Apps

Developers can no longer issue updates for apps present on its repository, from outside its store.

 

After a lot of Malware issues cropping up from the Android market and an unsolicited Facebook app update later, Google has decided to come down heavily on app developers. A new addition to its "Dangerous Products" section on the Google Play Developer Program Policies page mentions, "app downloaded from Google Play may not modify, replace or update its own APK binary code using any method other than Google Play's update mechanism".

According to an older report on liliputing.com, this new development seems to have been fuelled by a direct and nagging Facebook update, which was forced on users and hadn't been routed through the Play store. Facebook on its part, assured users from its online community forum thread that the update is indeed legit. On of FB's Android app developers further clarified, We're working quickly to improve Facebook for Android and want to make sure everyone is using the best version of our app. You'll experience these updates when you are on Wi-Fi, and they won't rely on your data plan".

Despite the reassurance, users did seem sceptical, and instead of giving its users "the best version of the app", they lost quite a few loyalists to third-party apps.

That being said, this entire scenario makes it seem like a Catch-22 situation. It is an open secret, that Google doesn't scan apps for malware before hosting it up on its repository. Also, with very few restrictions it is far more developer-friendly than competing repositories. With multiple OEMs to support, it can't really look at an iTunes-style closed model. That has given room to several competing Android app markets as well, and none are safer than the other. In fact some budget handsets don't even offer Play Store support. However, that in no way justifies Facebook's move; it opens up a doorway for malware to creep into the user's handset. The social networking giant seems to be taking a lot of leeway with the OS maker after unveiling its new UI skin for the platform. Seeding the update for users both on its website and through the Play store isn’t a lot to ask for, especially when safeguarding user interest, now is it?

Google Updates Dev Policy On Play Store; Bans Backdoor Updates For Apps


TAGS: Internet, Apps, Android, Facebook, Google

 
News Corner
IMP IMP IMP
##