Canadian Android Apps: A Community List and Geo-Restrictions
Archive note. This story reflects what was known when it was first covered. Prices, availability and carrier offers are historical. For the current picture, start with the topic guides.
Where it started
The author had just spent a morning frustrated at not being able to get the new Field Trip app. Geographic restrictions are common for new apps, and the author said they understood why they exist. Still, it left Canadian users feeling a little left out.
A lighter response
To feel better about it, the author made a tongue-in-cheek list of what Canada does have:
- Plenty of drinkable water and great forests.
- A low number of people per square kilometre.
- Rich history, though the author noted it was missing from Field Trip.
- Better beer, bigger football fields and stellar hockey players.
The real list
Since this was an Android blog, the author turned to something practical. The site had covered the topic a few times, and this time the information went into one more organized database. The same author already kept similar sheets for phones, tablets, Ice Cream Sandwich updates, Jelly Bean updates and cloud storage options. The new one was the Canadian Apps sheet, which readers could open and comment on.
If an app is missing in your region
- Check the app’s Play Store page in your own country.
- Wait for a wider release, which often follows the first launch.
- Avoid installing apps from unknown sources, which carries security risks.
Frequently asked questions
Why are some apps blocked in Canada?
Developers sometimes limit a launch to certain countries because of licensing, data or testing reasons. The author acknowledged that such restrictions have reasons.
What was Field Trip?
A location-based app that the author could not get in Canada at the time.
Is the list still online?
This page does not link to it, and the list reflects the app situation of its day.