Play Store blocks AuroraStore, hurting GrapheneOS users
Points and comments are a snapshot, not live.
AuroraStore, a Play Store alternative, is blocked for anonymous downloads, impacting GrapheneOS users.
AuroraStore, including nightly builds, returns a "&$Server busy, please try again later." error when installing apps via anonymous accounts. Users on GrapheneOS and CalyxOS report the error persists after clearing cache, using VPNs, or restarting devices. Some users find it works intermittently after multiple attempts or refreshing anonymous accounts. Commenters suspect Google is rate-limiting or flagging Aurora's pool of burner accounts used for anonymous logins, as the error occurs with requests to `android.clients.google.com`. Workarounds include signing in with a Google account, though this undermines Aurora's privacy purpose.
What commenters are saying
Commenters widely agree Google is likely blocking AuroraStore's anonymous account pool, not GrapheneOS itself. Two camps emerge: those noting GrapheneOS officially recommends the Play Store over Aurora, and those arguing Aurora is essential for users who want to avoid a Google account. A key claim is that the error pattern-one successful install followed by persistent failures-aligns with new rate-limiting or auth challenges. Several commenters confirm refreshing anonymous accounts or switching VPN countries can temporarily restore access. Some point out that signing in with a Google account bypasses the block, though this defeats Aurora's privacy goal.