News Microsoft confirms Marketplace 'kill-switch'

http://www.bit-tech.net/news/bits/2009/09/18/microsoft-confirms-marketplace-kill-switch/1

Microsoft has confirmed that applications removed from the Windows Marketplace for Mobile store after approval will be automatically deleted from users' handsets.

 

Good. As long as they're upfront about it, this is a very sensible feature. If an app gets approved, but later the approval is revoked because the app (say) contains hidden malware, it is a smart precaution to remove all existing installs. That way, users don't need to manually remove it to protect their device.

In an ideal world, of course, this wouldn't be an issue, because all apps would be properly screened before going live, but we all know there is no such thing as a perfect filter, and things will get through that will be later revoked.

One point though, if a paid-for app is revoked retroactively, presumably the user gets a refund and MS has to try to recover any royalties paid to the developer?

 

I fail to see what right they have to go on your phone and remove stuff. If they no longer think an app is safe, they should transmit a warning to you so you can delete it yourself.

 

I agree with this, or maybe take it a step farther. Have the option to turn it on or off. Leave it on by default for the majority of users who wouldn't understand what something like malware is anyway.

 

at least Apple lets you keep your apps......

 

For preventing malware? OK, but it seems it won't be used only for that. I hope you'll be able to disable the option in registry.

 

on this subject, if they can delete apps from your fone what else can they do without you knowing????? if an app was removed from the marketplace you would not realy know it had been removed! they should realy think about this one and maybe send a sms to everyone that has that app and ask if they want it removed due to it not being on the marketplace anymore! not just remove it so when you go to use it its not there no more!! if you payed for it, then why cant you keep it if you wish???

 

I have never used a windows mobile, but I would say that if I buy an app, it's mine, and legal suits would follow if they deleted or even disabled it. If it is a leased or rented, who knows? And what if you get the same app from another location other than their marketplace, and they delete something they didn't have rights to?