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Grooveshark gets kicked out of the Android Market
Google has removed Grooveshark from the Android Market. The move, which comes many months after Apple kicked the music app from its App Store, has to do with (what else?) accusations from several top music labels that Grooveshark violates copyright law.It's unclear whether Google plans to also remotely remove the app from Android smartphones on which it's already been installed, something that Google has the power to do but has only in the past used to get rid of malware-ridden apps.
In response to questions regarding Grooveshark's removal from the Android Market, a Google spokesperson only had this to say: "We remove apps from Android Market that violate our terms of service." The spokesperson did not mention what violations Grooveshark has committed in relation to the Market's terms of service. Google has also, understandably, not said anything about this happening in response to pressure from the music industry -- yet what else could have triggered this removal?
In an interesting coincidence, Google is set to outline its anti-piracy efforts before the House of Representatives' Judiciary committee today. Google has been accused numerous times that it profits from piracy by allowing 'pirate' sites to post Google ads. The company is expected to deny this as well as issue a tougher stance on piracy at today's hearing.
As for Grooveshark, it looks like it's quickly running out of mobile app stores on which it's allowed to exist. Do consider however that you'll probably still be able to get the Android app from Grooveshark directly -- since (unless you have an AT&T Android device) Android does allow you to install apps that don't come from the Market.
Comments
6
Subscribe to commentskingkool68Apr 6th 2011 10:56AM
Grrr... I love the Grooveshark mobile app. It's so awesome to have any song you want on demand and streaming into your car speakers.
DatacideApr 6th 2011 11:30AM
Luckily with an open app market, it doesn't need to go through the official Android Market. All you need is the .apk (no need to root.jailbreak). They can just host it off their own site or another app store like they did with the iPhone app.
KevinApr 6th 2011 12:02PM
I imagine downloads will soar now that it's controversial.
JonnyApr 6th 2011 1:51PM
Just FYI, you can install anything on your AT&T phone if you have root and simply enable allow non-market apps. Google it if no one knows how.
DApr 6th 2011 6:00PM
Good thing grooveshark is still working on the pre's and blackberry's. Time to switch out phones.
LadiApr 22nd 2011 4:40AM
The GrooveShark issue must be one of the sticking points holding up Google's music-in-the cloud negotiations with the major labels, that's a certainty...
With Amazon's head start (sans copyright negotiations, mind you) and Apple's rumoured imminent entry into this market, it's become a matter of urgency to "clear the way" to service roll-out...