Google Apps reportedly blocked on uncertified devices, but custom ROM users can be whitelisted

Google is reportedly blocking uncertified devices from running the company’s GApps (Google Apps) like Maps, Play Store, and more. As per a report by XDA Developers, users on uncertified devices running a new Android version, which is compiled after March 16, 2018, are unable to log into their Google account. This new change also affects custom ROM developers, who keep compiling and trying new builds of customised Android OS. However, they do have some sort of relief from Google as they can register their device ID, or as per the report, their IMEI numbers with the company to be whitelisted. A user can register up to 100 devices. 

Till now, some uncertified Android devices came preloaded with GApps and if not, users could easily sideload them. Google has been warning these device manufacturers of the issue from the past year and users have also been receiving the notifications on their devices but it could be easily bypassed by clearing data of Play Services. This will now no longer be possible and manufacturers will need to register their devices in order to provide GApps services. It should be noted that this change doesn't affect Android devices with older compilation dates. 

Image Credits: XDA Developers

Android, being an open-source operating system, gives a lot of room to users for tweaking and changing it as per their requirements. As per the report, this move by Google will ensure consistent GApps experience across devices and restricting device OEMs/ODMs who are not following the Android Compatibility Definition Document and skipping the company’s Compatibility Test Suite (CTS) to. “Doing so will now bring up these warnings which will shame device makers and force them to go through the proper certification channel.” 

Follow Us

Digit NewsDesk

Digit News Desk writes news stories across a range of topics. Getting you news updates on the latest in the world of tech. View Full Profile