Google’s App Store Power Grab: A Developer’s Nightmare Unfolds
Apple and Google’s app store control is old news, but governments now play the same game, pressuring these tech giants into compliance. With Google’s new developer registration program, it’s like a VIP lounge for app makers—if VIP stands for Very Intrusive Process. Taking back control of tech has never been more urgent.
Hot Take:
When did Google and Apple start moonlighting as bouncers for the app world? With Google now asking developers for IDs and a small fee, it feels like they’re running a secret speakeasy for apps. Pretty soon, they’ll be asking for your mother’s maiden name and your first pet’s name just to submit a weather app. Meanwhile, governments are treating these tech giants like a personal concierge service for censorship. Welcome to the bizarre bazaar of app development, where privacy is as elusive as a unicorn at a dog show!
Key Points:
– **Apple and Google are under pressure from governments to control app availability.**
– **Google introduces a registration program requiring developer IDs and fees.**
– **This program might discourage small developers and open-source communities.**
– **There’s a risk of the program being used for surveillance and control.**
– **EFF and F-Droid are advocating against this centralization of app development.**