[Johann Cat]

I doubt my Mars has different firmware than other customers here. To be clear, I sideloaded Google Play and Play Services, but when I did, a menu item came up in the manage apps screen that asked if I wanted to to engage Google services. I said "yes" and proceeded. I put a 10% chance on this working, and it didn't, though Play tries to open, but with no text on the screen. My take on the Mars is that it doesn't behave like an open-source android, like every other B&W android I have used, but rather like a broken Kobo that half-way accepts outside apps. I'm really disappointed, because the hardware seemed promising. The operating system is not ready for prime time. Maybe they'll get the OS right, but I'm sticking with my 2015 Onyx i86, which is still the best 8 inch B&W android I have seen so far.