Google has started blocking access to its apps on uncertified Android devices whose firmware was built after March 16 which could cause trouble to users who like to load custom ROMs on their smartphones.

"Android is an open source operating system and a million other varieties have blossomed. If your Android device is certified by Google, you're allowed to distribute Google's official Android apps on it. If you're not certified, you aren't supposed to ship those apps," The Verge reported late on Monday.