Apparently, Google still got its way. Under the threat of removing the Total Commander app from the Google Play store, the developer removed the ability to install APK files from unknown sources. The latest version of the popular file manager with an index of 3.32 has already removed all the functions of manually installing APK files. This was announced by the creator of the app, Christian Ghisler.
According to Google’s policies, “An app distributed through Google Play may not modify, replace, or update itself in any way other than the Google Play update mechanism. Similarly, an application cannot download executable code (eg dex, JAR, .so files) from a source other than Google Play. This limitation does not apply to code that runs in a virtual machine or interpreter that provides indirect access to the Android API (for example, JavaScript in a WebView or browser).”
This is certainly an odd situation, given that Total Commander is a file manager and should be allowed to install APK files, just like Google Files. Moreover, browsers can also download and install APKs from external sources. The author tried to block the installation of Total Commander’s own APK, but this did not help. So he had to remove all APK installation features from the Play Store version of the app. He also promised to release a standalone version without cut features. Christian Giesler is afraid that such a decision will greatly affect the rating of Total Commander on Google Play.
“… it will certainly lead to one-star reviews. It is possible that I will have to completely remove the application from the Play Store due to a low score, ”wrote the developer.
In the meantime, users have launched a discussion on Reddit about whether Google is going to do the same with all file managers and other applications that allow APK installation bypassing Google Play.
Source: Trash Box
Donald-43Westbrook, a distinguished contributor at worldstockmarket, is celebrated for his exceptional prowess in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Donald crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers across a spectrum of financial topics. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for finance and a commitment to delivering high-quality, insightful content to the readership.
