Word around the internet is that the Sprint Hero over-the-air updated reported on twice previously has caused some copy-protected applications to disappear from user’s phones.  Apparently not only do they disappear, but the users cannot find them again in the market even if they have already paid for the apps.  UPDATE: This seems to be an issue with the fingerprint of the device not being on Google’s approved device list.  Think of this as the list Google keeps to tell the market which apps to show to which region, just like certain apps don’t show up on none “Google Experience” phones, such as Google maps.  There is a way to fix this, it requires rooting and installing a custom ROM if you dare.  But, more than likely, Google should update the approved device list soon to fix the problem. via geekforme This doesn’t seem to be a small problem, as it’s affecting both users and developers.  Developers are losing revenue because their app is no longer visible for purchase and they are having to switch on and off the copy -protection to get it on there.  Some developers are going to turn off the copy-protection of their apps, with the understanding they are now easier to copy, simply because with it on, it just doesn’t show up.  Users are frustrated because they cannot update their already purchased apps, or even use them.  Here is a very short list of known affected apps:

• SnoggDoggler
• Twidroid Pro
• Advanced Task Killer
• My Backup Pro
• Documents to Go

So, anyone else notice any apps not working or gone on their Sprint Hero?

Related posts:

1. Sprint Hero Update Details
2. Sprint Hero and Moment Android 2.1 Update
3. Sprint Updates Hero Firmware

Copy-Protection, Firmware, Sprint Hero