Microsoft can applications via the online application store of Windows 8 have been downloaded, at a distance, to remove. The company says to do with security issues or due to legal obligations.
This is evident from the license terms of the Windows Store, the application store in Windows 8. Microsoft writes in those conditions has the right to retain at all times, applications to change or ‘discontinueren’. That last one means the application of devices with Windows 8 will be removed.
The company says that for example, if the safety of users is at stake, or if there is a legal duty to make an application block. If an app of Windows 8 devices is removed, it may be that also the private data in that application are stored will be deleted and cannot be recovered. If users have paid for an application that the device is removed, Microsoft can choose to keep these costs to compensate, though it is unclear in which cases that happens.
As far as is known does the kill switch only in the Windows Store. That application store to be used for applications to buy for the new Metro interface of Windows 8 have been developed; such applications must not otherwise be disseminated. Normal software can also in the Windows Store to be offered, but may also be through other ways will be distributed.
Android and iOS have a similar kill switch, although this on iOS has never been used. On Android is the option used. Google removes applications that are malware prove to be of phones.
The license also shows that the Windows Store is no ‘cooling off period’ within which users of their paid purchase can cancel. Users can purchase single undo if legislation is required to offer that possibility. Although the Netherlands is a statutory cooling-off period on online purchases, not for applications and other digitally distributed content. The Android Market has a cooling-off period.
Moreover, developers can still own a grace period to offer users an app can try it out without having to pay for it. After that trial period, users can choose whether they want a deposit for the application.