Google Play Store has removed the app from its Android device app store app Downloaderwhich allowed users to download files from websites. The service was blocked after a complaint filed by the DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act), which alleged that the application facilitated the download of pirated content.
Developer Elias Saba has received several complaints, mainly from Israeli TV stations, who have accused the app of allowing users to download illegal content, such as local and foreign TV series with Hebrew subtitles.
In response to this issue, Google has taken steps to strengthen its anti-piracy policy. In an effort to combat the use of Downloader for this illegal purpose, the company has banned the app from its official store, the Google Play Store.
Saba defended his service in a post on the AFTVnews website and stated that: “Any rational person would agree that you can’t blame a web browser for the pirated content that exists on the internet, but that’s exactly what happened with my app“.
The developer filed a motion for a ruling on the same day the service was blocked, in addition to a Google DMCA counter-notification form.
Within about an hour her case was rejected, but Saba is awaiting the outcome of her DMCA appeal.
I need your help! My Downloader app has been wrongly removed from @GooglePlay Store due to an absurd DMCA takedown from Israel TV @yescoil that claims because the web browser in the app can load a specific website with its infringing content that my app is violating copyright.
— AFTVnews (@AFTVnews) May 19, 2023
Translation: “I need your help! My Downloader app was wrongfully removed from the @GooglePlay Store due to a DMCA complaint from Israel TV @yescoil, who claims that because the in-app web browser can load a specific website with their infringing content, my app is violating copyright.”
Understand how the Downloader application worked
The tool allowed users to download files directly to their Smart TVs.
While it was widely used to download legitimate apps, games, and media files, it was also known to be used to access pirated content easily and conveniently.
Downloader made the process of installing third-party apps on Android TV devices easier by providing users with a built-in browser that could be used to access websites and download files directly to the TV.
This functionality, although useful for many, was also exploited by those seeking access to content piratesinfringing copyright.
