@ManDay said in Direct APK download from Windy.com:
Hi, the forum suggested this thread but I'll take the liberty to create one anyway. I think this would be generally a sensible thing to provide. The only potential reason I can think of why you at Windy wouldn't want to do this is, is to prevent people from accidentally using the direct download APK and then be barred from automatic updates. But I think a sufficient disclaimer (or hiding the download well enough...) could solve that.
That said, I think there are many good reasons why people don't register at Google, use their "PlayStore" or don't participate in their ecosystem entirely. Both, out of personal interest and technical necessity[1].
I known it's not a typical thing to do, but since you're not a typical "closed software" group either and are pretty well tethered with the community, I'm hoping you can help out a bit, for all those who don't want to go through Google.
PS: Signal sets a good example how to do this. I don't think that page (the direct APK download) is accessible anywhere through their main website, but it is there (top Google result, for example), if you insist. So you don't have to go through some 3rd party APK host like "apkpure", etc.
[1] To mention my particular case: I'm using a stock Android, but I use F-Droid for software. Windy and my Banking App are actually the only two closed softwares that are allowed :)
Hi there, I completely understand your perspective, and I agree it would be a thoughtful move for Windy to offer a direct APK download option for users outside of the Google ecosystem. As you mentioned, Signal provides a great example of how this can be done responsibly, with sufficient disclaimers to ensure users understand the trade-offs (e.g., lack of automatic updates).
There are plenty of valid reasons why people avoid Play Store or similar ecosystems, whether for privacy concerns, technical constraints, or simply personal preference. Providing a direct APK would reflect Windy's commitment to community-oriented and open access principles.
It’s true that direct downloads might require careful implementation, but given Windy’s reputation for being community-focused, I think this would align well with their ethos.