this post was submitted on 01 May 2026
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I support spreading this message, and fuck Google, but...what's actually happening is they are making harder to install apps, not removing the ability to do so.
https://grapheneos.social/@GrapheneOS/116489468836419322
After massive pushback. Their original plan was basically full control. It still is, but they'll allow you to install something if you ask nicely first.
The other issue is the timing. They can claim this is for security all they want, but it was announced suspiciously close to the courts ruling that Google needed to open up their ecosystem to other app stores. This is a blatant attempt to keep control of the app ecosystem by forcing devs to go through Google regardless of where they intend to release.
I'm not happy with the change, but let's at least get the facts straight, so we can argue our position better. Their original plan included a way to install apps from unknown sources, but it did not describe how that would work.
I'm honestly neutral with the change, it makes setting up a new phone a little more annoying, it will just be another step in the process and doesn't stop me from doing anything. However the small barrier will stop scammers pressuring people into installing things. It doesn't make it impossible, but will get rid of a lot of the low hanging fruit.
When would a scammer make you download an app? They could just as (more) easily make you visit a website...
It's wrong to think this will stop scammers or malware.
And where you drew the line? These things tend to move in one direction. so giving an inch may as well be giving a mile.