AT&T has a reputation for having tight control over its Android handsets. One major sticking point for Android owners on Big Blueis the carrier’s removal of the system option that lets you download applications from sources outside the Android Market. On most handsets powered by Google’s mobile operating system, this option is turned off for security reasons, but can be enabled when users want to access a source outside the official market. These third-party application sources include APK files distributed directly by developers and third-party Marketplaces like the new Appstore launched by Amazon.
Under its current rules, AT&T customers cannot access apps from the Amazon Appstore, a situation that has led to more than one customer complaint. In light of this situation, the wireless carrier issued a statement that suggests it may be willing to relax its rules.
“AT&T plans to offer the Amazon application store for Android smartphones and we’re working to give our Android customers access to third party application stores. This requires updates to our systems and finalizing arrangements with Amazon.”
Much to the chagrin of its customers, this change is not instantaneous as the carrier must update its system to support this feature. Big Blue must also work with Amazon and handset manufacturers to prepare this update for its customers. Unfortunatelty, the carrier did not confirm a timeframe for this update, not did it confirm whether it was extending this feature to other third party App stores.
[Via AllThingsD]