Locking the Platform to the Few
Recently, Google announced a proposal that requires all Android app developers to hand over personal information to verify their identity, if they choose to distribute their app outside of the Play Store. Serendipiware opposes this proposal as a serious invasion of the right to digital privacy, and a threat to the ecosystem’s competition, leaving the fate of app publishing entirely in Google’s hands.
An Inefficient Way to Secure
Android already has safeguards capable of protecting users without needing to trace the creator of every app on the internet. Users can already choose to enable elevated permissions when they wish to sideload apps outside Google’s approved ecosystem. The Play Store’s ability to fight malicious apps has also proven to be far from reliable countless times in the past anyway.
The Excuse to Track, in the Name of Security
Big tech has a long track record of data breaches and abuse, and the owner of Android happens to be one of the largest companies whose entire business model is built on collecting data. This makes experts and organizations rightfully skeptical about handing over identifiable personal information for what feels like a dishonest, untransparent reason.
A centralized database of every developer who wants to share their app with the public creates a controlled environment where a single company holds power over others’ software availability, which risks freedom of choice, destroys competition, and opens the door to suppression based on political or economic interests. Even if that’s not Google’s intention today, they would still be legally obligated to comply with whatever governments demand of that data. It’s better not to have that responsibility at all.
It’s Not About Business
Not every developer distributes apps for profit. From educators to hobbyists, no one should have to risk their privacy just to participate in an ecosystem that was built to be free and open. That openness is what makes Android different. A truly open mobile platform is necessary for a healthy, accessible environment for everyone.
We call on Google to reconsider this proposal and ensure Android remains an open platform, continuing to grow with security solutions that don’t sacrifice developers’ right to stay safe and anonymous outside the Play Store.
Feel free to read the Keep Android Open letter and support the signatories. Thanks for everything you’re doing ♡