Google Play Installs count of paid application

[Penko]

I am sorry, I couldn't put a very meaningful title but here is the situation:

I added a donate .apk for one of my applications some time ago. One guy purchased it almost immediately but cancelled the transaction and I noticed there is:

Total installs: 1
Active installs: 0

Recently, two guys purchased it and it was:

Total installs: 3
Active installs: 2

At a later moment, I noticed(without any new transactions for this application)
Total installs: 3
Active installs: 3

I monitored the Google Checkout Order Summary and haven't seen any new purchases but now the statistics is:

Total installs: 4
Active installs: 4

So, how is it possible that a cancelled transaction reinstalled the application without paying and how a person without any transaction also uses the application?

The only way I think this is possible if Google detects all phones which this .apk is installed on. If any of the guys who purchased legally is distributing the apk separately? Does Google Play statistics indicate such installs(not through Google Play)? That's too weird.

P.S I have it on my developers phone, I may try to remove it to see if the statistics is changed.

 

[Penko]

Some update by Google:

21 August 2012: Install numbers inconsistent in Developer Console
We're aware of reports from some developers that they see inconsistencies in installs data displayed in their Developer Console since August 21. We're investigating this issue and are striving to resolve it as soon as possible. No action is needed on your part at this time. Please check back here for updates.
Learn more

Numbers look good at least for me now.

 

[WizardOz]

Remember that One user can pay once and install on all his devices using the same user.

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

 

[JonPM]

I don't even look at the developer console numbers any more. For accurate numbers regarding purchases I use Appmonger

 

[Penko]

Remember that One user can pay once and install on all his devices using the same user.

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

Would that increase the number? It is logical but i cant be sure how they have done it.

@JONPM, I will take a look, thanks.

Sent from my Next7P12 using Tapatalk 2

 

[WizardOz]

I do it all the time. I have three devices using the same google login user, buy an app once, Download it on all three...
I guess its logical that makes One purchase and three installs...

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

 

[Penko]

Just to update this topic, here is the official Google Play Team Statement:

Hi Penko,

Thank you for your note. We understand, you're concerned about statistics in your Developer Console.

Please note that in some instances it is possible to have more active device installs than total user installs. This condition occurs when a user installs an app on more than one of their devices. For example, if you download an app on three of your devices this action is considered one total user install and three active device installs.

For additional information please visit Google Play developer Help Center at Application statistics - Google Play for Developers Help

Regards,
The Google Play Team