⚠️ Not affected: The Serial Edition purchased from VMH, or the OEM Edition bundled with pre-prepared tablets.
What’s happening?
Google has begun remotely disabling Play Store versions of Marine Navigator, even if you previously purchased them. This typically happens when the app is restarted.
Why has this happened?
The developer, Ronald Koenig, has confirmed that Google’s updated policies and license verification system are causing the issue. He has contacted Google for clarification.
What’s the result?
If your Play Store app stops working, you may suddenly lose access to both your navigation system and your charts. This can happen without warning.
Is there a workaround?
Yes. Some users report that if you start Marine Navigator with WiFi/data switched off, the app opens normally.
You can then reconnect to the internet, and the app continues to function. This may help temporarily but is not a permanent solution.
What’s the long-term solution?
Mr Koenig has made Marine Navigator SE (Serial Edition) available through VMH.
- It is not tied to a Google account.
- It can be sideloaded to any Android device.
- Each purchase allows activation on two devices (one main, one backup).
- Once installed, it cannot be remotely disabled.
[Get Marine Navigator SE here]
What about my charts?
Free-chart regions (e.g., US, Brazil, New Zealand): Download fresh charts and import them into Marine Navigator SE.
VMH licensed charts: These are tied to your device. To reinstall, you’ll need your original email with unlock codes and download links.
Charts from 2022–2023 can be reinstalled.
- VMH will support purchases from the last 12 months.
- Older chartsets may need to be repurchased (we suggest waiting until Feb 2024 for the best value).
Can I save my waypoints and routes?
Yes. On your device, use a file manager to copy them from:
Android/data/de.kemiro.marinenavigator/files/
These can then be imported into Marine Navigator SE.
If you bought Marine Navigator on Google Play, your version may stop working without notice.
The safest path forward is to switch to Marine Navigator SE from VMH, which works like our chartpacks: no subscriptions, no remote lockouts, and reliable long-term use.