The official CyanogenMod blog this afternoon gave word that the CM Installer — an Android app that aids in the process of getting the custom ROM onto a device — was voluntarily pulled from Google Play. Here’s the rub:
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.
To those unfamiliar with the application, it has a single function – to guide users to enable “ADB”, a built in development and debugging tool, and then navigates the user to the desktop installer. The desktop application then performs the installation of the CyanogenMod on their Android device.
After reaching out to the Play team, their feedback was that though application itself is harmless, and not actually in violation of their Terms of Service, since it ‘encourages users to void their warranty’, it would not be allowed to remain in the store.
CM says it’ll submit the app to the Amazon and Samsung stores, and of course you can always sideload it.
Update: the CM team has updated their original blog post, and it’s prudent to post it here as well since we’re quoting them:
Update: Removed reference to Google stating the app was not in violation of TOS – this was a mischaracterization of Google’s statement.
Update 2: The source code for the app has been made available.
More: CyanogenMod blog