[Q] Android Software Upgrade - Android Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi,
I want to know if an android app is downloaded from a different distribution channel than Google Play, could the app still use Google Play to receive the updates?
Is it technically possibly and if the Google developer terms and conditions would allow it ?
Regards
Rehman Adil

It won't be possible to receive the updates from Google Play unless the APP is on Google Play servers. Only way I'm thinking you may push updates to is maybe running a server to make the app receive the updates or install another APK with the update applied to it.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A

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[Q] How Does the Google Play Store Package Create Restrictions??

This is my first post, so hope to get some good replies here .
Lots of Android users complain about a few issues related to Google Play.
a) country restrictions
b) access to paid apps
c) access to "device-specific" apps
For me, I'm really curious about how the Google Play app is creating these restrictions. I've noticed that Deeco7 and xinfinityoO have created mods to the stock APK in order to help people get around these restrictions and access more apps.
But how is Google Play specifically running its restrictions? I know one small part of device authentication comes from build.prop's ro.build.fingerprint. But does anybody have a good explanation for the overall restriction/authentication process? What is it about apps like MarketEnabler that allow (or not be able to allow) devices to circumvent Google Play restrictions?
Officially, manufacturer firmware builds need to pass Google CTS tests in order to get a "license" to use Google Play. Not sure if anyone knows whether or not an authentication key is signed for a particular device once it passes CTS, and if that plays a role in granting specific Google Play app access.
Look forward to any helpful facts.

Legal to use Google Play

My company is working on an in car device that is operating by Android Jelly Bean. I know android is open source but is there any reason fro me to believe I need Google's permission to install on such device the Google Play market?
Appreciate your responses.
Aaron
I don't think anyone has an answer to your question. You can try to read the open source details and license information on Google's open source.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
You don't need permission to use it, just that it should comply with Google's CTS guidelines. Those are a series of hardware and software checks to determine that the device is suitable to run the Google Apps (which are closed source). I don't think there should be any problem if you use any of the Google Apps from the respective Gapps package (http://goo.im/gapps).
Sent from my Desire HD using xda premium
Google Play is NOT open source so it cannot legally be distributed with a device without Google's approval. Its not heavily enforced as I see many generic Android tablets and TV sticks shipping with Google Play, many of which probably haven't been approved.
From Android FAQ: http://source.android.com/faqs.html
If my device is compatible, does it automatically have access to Google Play and branding?
Google Play is a service operated by Google. Achieving compatibility is a prerequisite for obtaining access to the Google Play software and branding. Device manufacturers should contact Google to obtain access to Google Play.
If I am not a manufacturer, how can I get Google Play?
Google Play is only licensed to handset manufacturers shipping devices. For questions about specific cases, contact [email protected].
How can I get access to the Google apps for Android, such as Maps?
The Google apps for Android, such as YouTube, Google Maps and Navigation, Gmail, and so on are Google properties that are not part of Android, and are licensed separately. Contact [email protected] for inquiries related to those apps.
Is compatibility mandatory?
No. The Android Compatibility Program is optional. Since the Android source code is open, anyone can use it to build any kind of device. However, if a manufacturer wishes to use the Android name with their product, or wants access to Google Play, they must first demonstrate that the device is compatible.
How much does compatibility certification cost?
There is no cost to obtain Android compatibility for a device. The Compatibility Test Suite is open-source and available to anyone to use to test a device.
How long does compatibility take?
The process is automated. The Compatibility Test Suite generates a report that can be provided to Google to verify compatibility. Eventually we intend to provide self-service tools to upload these reports to a public database.
Who determines what will be part of the compatibility definition?
Since Google is responsible for the overall direction of Android as a platform and product, Google maintains the Compatibility Definition Document for each release. We draft the CDD for a new Android version in consultation with a number of OEMs, who provide input on its contents.
Click to expand...
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Google Play API App Fetcher

Hey guys! I used to download apps from google play using this tool apify
but it seems to always be broken, maybe too many people using it. Does anyone know of a similar tool that uses the same functionality, but doe snot encrypt the end result links/downloads? Basically, i am looking for a API tool that can download apps from google play without a PIN ID or email address

[Q] Google-free Android - how?

I'm using a Nexus 4 and trying to get rid of all the Google tracking services and their built-in Android background communications with Google servers. I have already searched the internet and found a few articles about this, however most of them were outdated or didn't answer my questions.
I do like the look and feel of stock Android, which is why I would probably go for CyanogenMod for this. In an optimal world, it would retain its current look and feel, but without communicating with Google.
My questions that I currently have pretty much are as follows (when using CyanogenMod):
- is it possible to keep using SOME Play store / stock apps but taking their permission to send information to Google? For example, I still want to use whatsapp and I doubt I can find it in the F-Droid store, or perhaps i like the Google camera app, and so on
- is it possible to turn off all Google tracking services (obvious things such as Google Now, but also the less obvious, like the constant hidden communications with Google servers) using CyanogenMod?

I need help in obtaining a country restricted app (VPN is not working)

Hi Guys,
how can i install an app that is only available for some countries (i have tried the with VPN and it doesn't work). It is a medical app and i need it for my insulin sensor level reader.
it can be found on UK and France app store. On my store it cant even be seen. It is called "FreeStyle LibreLink". If someone can provide me the apk it would be great.
I have tried to search the forum but i failed in finding something similar.
Thank you for your help
Mihnea
https://apkpure.com/developer/Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
thank you, i have installed it but it is still not working
Hello,
thank you for your help. I have manged to install the app but when i am trying to open it i am being redirected to Play Store and it is blocking the application somehow.. any idea how to pass this? I have installed a VPN but i am getting the same issue.
Thanks
Mihnea
No idea, sorry. I would try to contact the developer.
You need to find the app for your specific country. I have the swedish one.
However the app is not compatible with the Pixel 4s new NFC chip. I managed to sideload the swedish app and am not getting the error message. I still can't read the sensor 9 times out of 10 tho. So I am hoping for an update, either from abott or google.
Came to XDA to see if they might have a patch or mod etc.
Not certain relevant but I assume you are not granting "location" access on your phone to that app (or google for that matter)? 2nd - Assuming that you are connected via vpn to whatever Country the app communicates with (assuming it needs to even talk to a remote computer/service to work), if you are being directed to the play store is the app out of date perhaps and creator is requiring an update?

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