Confirmed: Amazon App Store Blocked On AT&T Android Phones (Updated)
Humberto Saabedra
Within the last few minutes reports have surfaced confirming that the recently launched Amazon Android App Store is incompatible with AT&T Android smartphones. Since the Amazon App Store for Android app is not currently distributed through the Android Marketplace and is distributed directly through Amazon itself, it requires a lengthy workaround to sideload and install the app on the phone. Even after manual installation however, apps downloaded from the client will refuse to install.
We at PhoneNews.com have long held the position that AT&T’s Android phones should not be purchased due to the closed nature of AT&T’s Android handset lineup and this latest development further solidifies our position on the matter. Until AT&T reverses its position on allowing third-party software to be installed on its devices, we do not recommend purchasing an AT&T-branded Android smartphone.
Update: Amazon has posted a notice on its portal for AT&T Android smartphone owners stating that it is working with the carrier to allow the Amazon App Store to function on its Android lineup, with no timeframe given for availability.
