Open source app store
Aurora Store is an app store for Android devices, made using the open-source Aurora code. It offers many of the key features of existing app stores but with enhanced usability options, such as spoofing and an anonymous mode.
FOSS app stores
The Google Play store is most people’s app store of choice, usually because it’s already on most Android devices. However, since it has very strict terms and conditions regarding what it can and can’t stock, FOSS (Free and Open Source Software) apps are usually excluded.
If you’re looking for a particular app you can’t find on typical channels or dislike the Google Play store’s hunger for personal data, Aurora Store might be what you need. It joins similar alternatives like F-Droid and APKPure as a (generally) safe and legal place to download Android apps.
An open-source alternative
Aurora Store is built on the Aurora Open Source Software, and as such, the code can be examined, audited, changed, and downloaded by anybody. If you want to use Aurora Store, just download and run the app.
Accessibility
The Aurora Store is as easy to use as its main rival, with categories of apps tied to personal taste and recommendations, as well as sorted by type (action, puzzle). It’s technically safe and legal to use, but keep in mind that some apps it hosts may not be; Aurora Store isn’t as strict as Google Play, although it’s still possible to find questionable apps on the latter.
If you want to purchase an app, you’ll need to do so via the Google Play store. However, you can then download it with Aurora Store. However, you won’t be able to make in-app purchases.
Our take
Aurora Store is a decent alternative to Google Play if you’re careful. The main difference between the two app stores is that Aurora doesn’t collect any personal data when you use it. You can also spoof your device to download region-locked apps, which isn’t technically illegal but not generally encouraged.
Should you download it?
Yes. It has similar functionality to Google Play but without tracking any of your data.
