Feedback on app update – Google Play Services requirement
etienne1234
Posted: 15.09.2026 15:09
Modified: 22.09.2026 05:20
Hello,
I’ve been using the Aranet Home app on a GrapheneOS Android smartphone for over a year now, paired with an Aranet4 and an Aranet Rn+. One of the main reasons I chose Aranet (besides the sensor quality) was the app’s ability to work flawlessly over bluetooth without requiring any network access. This ensured the privacy of the environmental data I collect at home.
I was excited to explore the new app versions, but I was disappointed to find that the app now requires Google Play Store to be active. Shortly after launch, the app displays a blank screen with a pop-up stating that the Play Store must be present. However, during the brief moments before the app stops working, I can see that it still communicates with the sensors and displays graphs. Essentially all the functionality I need.
Would it be possible to make the app more tolerant of this use case? For users like me who run devices without Google Play Store or Services, a degraded mode that retains core sensor functionality would be invaluable.
In the meantime, I’ve reverted to an older version. While I’m aware of the potential security patches I’m missing, this is less concerning in my case since the app has no network access and limited permissions. Still, I’m genuinely sad to feel cut off from the ecosystem of sensors I’ve come to rely on.
Thank you for considering this feedback. I hope you can support this use case in a future update.
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