Telefoni yt është duke pushuar së qeni yt.

100 ditë deri në bllokim

Duke filluar nga shtatori 2026, një përditësim i heshtur, i shtyrë nga Google pa pëlqimin tënd, do të bllokojë çdo aplikacion Android që zhvilluesi i tij nuk është regjistruar pranë Google, nuk ka nënshkruar kontratën e tyre, nuk ka paguar dhe nuk ka dorëzuar dokument identifikimi qeveritar.

Çdo aplikacion dhe çdo pajisje, në mbarë botën, pa mundësi zgjedhjeje.

Çfarë po bën Google

Në gusht 2025, Google njoftoi një kërkesë të re: duke filluar nga shtatori 2026, çdo zhvillues aplikacionesh Android duhet të regjistrohet qendroisht pranë Google para se softueri i tyre të mund të instalohet në çdo pajisje. Jo vetëm aplikacionet e Play Store: të gjitha aplikacionet. Kjo përfshin aplikacionet e ndara mes miqsh, të shpërndara përmes F-Droid, të ndërtuara nga amatorë për përdorim personal. Zhvilluesit e pavarur, grupet fetare dhe komunitare, dhe amatorët do të jenë të gjithë të përjashtuar nga mundësia për të zhvilluar dhe shpërndarë softuerin e tyre.

Regjistrimi kërkon:

Nëse një zhvillues nuk pajtohet, aplikacionet e tij bllokohen heshtazi në çdo pajisje Android në mbarë botën.

Kush dëmtohet prej kësaj

Ti

Ti bleve një telefon Android sepse Google të tha se ishte i hapur. Mund të instalonie çfarë doje, dhe kjo ishte marrëveshja.

Google po rishkruan këtë marrëveshje, me efekt retroaktiv, në pajisje që tashmë i zotëron. Pas instalimit të përditësimit, mund të ekzekutosh vetëm softuer që Google ka miratuar paraprakisht. Në telefonin tënd: pronë jote, që ti pagove për të.

Zhvilluesit e pavarur

Aplikacioni i parë i një adoleshenti, një mjet privatësie i një vullnetari, ose një beta e brendshme konfidenciale e një kompanie. Nuk ka rëndësi. Pas shtatorit 2026, asnjëra nga këto nuk mund të instalohet pa bekimin e Google.

F-Droid, shtëpia e mijëra aplikacioneve falas dhe me burim të hapur për Android, e ka quajtur këtë një kërcënim "ekzistencial". Cory Doctorow e quan "Darth Android".

Qeveritë dhe shoqëria civile

Google ka një historik të dokumentuar të pajtimit kur regjimet autoritare kërkojnë heqjen e aplikacioneve. Me këtë program, softueri që ekzekuton institucionet e vendit tënd do të ekzistojë me lejen e një korporate të vetme të jashtme dhe të papërgjegjshme.

EFF thotë se ruajtja e portave të aplikacioneve është "rruga gjithnjë e zgjeruese e censurës në internet".

"Porta e emergjencës" e Google-it është një kurth

Google thotë se "përdoruesit e avancuar" munden ende të "instalojnë" aplikacionet e pavërtetuara. Ja se si duket me të vërtetë kjo:

  1. Hyr në Cilësimet e Sistemit, gjej Opsionet e Zhvilluesit
  2. Trokite numrin e ndërtimit shtatë herë për të aktivizuar Modalitetin e Zhvilluesit
  3. Largo ekranet e frikësueshme për detyrim
  4. Vendos PIN-in tënd
  5. Rinis pajisjen
  6. Pritni 24 orë
  7. Kthehu, largo më shumë ekrane frikësuese
  8. Zgjidh "lejo përkohësisht" (7 ditë) ose "lejo pa kufizime"
  9. Konfirmo, përsëri, se kupton "rreziqet"

Nëntë hapa. Një periudhë detyruese prej 24 orësh pritjeje. Për të instaluar softuer në një pajisje që ti zotëron.

Më keq akoma: kjo rrugë ekzekutohet plotësisht përmes Google Play Services, jo përmes sistemit operativ Android. Google mund ta ndryshojë, ta ngushtojë ose ta heqë atë në çdo kohë, pa kërkuar përditësim të sistemit operativ dhe pa nevojë për pëlqim. Dhe deri më sot, nuk është dërguar në asnjë version beta, paraprak ose eksperimental. Ekziston vetëm si një postim blogu dhe disa modele.

Kjo është më e madhe se Android

Nëse Google mund të bllokojë retroaktivisht miliarda pajisje që u shitën si platforma të hapura, çdo prodhues pajisjesh në planet po e vëzhgon.

Parimi që po vendoset: kompania që prodhoi pajisjen tënde ka të drejtë të vendosë, pasi e ke blerë, se çfarë softueri të lejohet të ekzekutosh. Në softuer, kjo quhet "tërheqje e qilimave"; por së paku gjithmonë mund të instalosh softuer konkurrues. Në harduer, është një fait accompli që të heq agjencinë tënde dhe të bën të pafuqishëm ndaj dëshirave të një mbikëqyrësi të vetëm të papërgjegjshëm dhe monopolist të dënuar.

Hapja e Android nuk ka qenë kurrë thjesht një karakteristikë. Ishte premtimi që e dallonte atë nga iPhone. Miliona zgjodhën Android për këtë arsye të saktë. Google po e anulon këtë premtim njëanshëm, në pajisje që tashmë janë në xhepat e njerëzve, sepse ka vendosur se ka mjaftueshëm dominim tregu dhe kapje rregullative për t'ia dalë mbanë.

Ars Technica: "Smira e Google për Apple kërcënon të shkatërrojë trashëgiminë e hapur të Android."

Por prit, a nuk është kjo...

"...thjesht për sigurinë?"

Arsyetimi i sigurisë është një perde tymi. Google Play Protect tashmë skanon për malware pavarësisht identitetit të zhvilluesit. Kërkesa për një dokument identifikimi qeveritar nuk e bën kodin më të sigurt. E bën zhvilluesit të identifikueshëm dhe të kontrollueshëm. Autorët e malware mund të regjistrohen. Zhvilluesit e pavarur dhe disidentët shpesh nuk munden. EFF është i qartë: ruajtja e portave bazuar në identitet është një mjet censurë, jo një mjet sigurie.

"...ende mund të instalosh jashtë nëse përdor rrjedhën e avancuar?"

Nëntë hapa, pritje 24 orëshe, fshehur në Opsionet e Zhvilluesit, të dhënë përmes një shërbimi pronësor që Google mund ta heqë kurdo që dëshiron. Kjo nuk është instalim jashtë. Kjo është një mekanizëm frikësimi i ndërtuar për të siguruar që pothuajse askush nuk e plotëson. Dhe pasi ekzekutohet përmes Play Services dhe jo përmes sistemit operativ, Google mund ta ngushtojë ose ta heqë atë heshtazi.

"...vetëm një problem nëse ke diçka për të fshehur?"

Sinjaletuesit, gazetarët dhe aktivistët nën regjime autoritare do të jenë viktimat e para. Njerëzit në situata dhune në familje janë të tjetër. Të gjitha këto grupe kanë arsye legjitime për të shpërndarë ose përdorur softuer pa vënë identitetin e tyre ligjor në një bazë të dhënash të Google. Kontributi anonim me burim të hapur është një traditë më e vjetër se vetë Google. Kjo politikë e mbyll atë në Android.

"...e njëjta gjë që bën Apple?"

Apple ka qenë një kopsht i rrethuar që nga dita e parë. Njerëzit zgjodhën Android sepse ishte ndryshe. "Edhe Apple e bën" është një garë drejt fundit dhe një argument i dobët tu quoque. Dhe nën presion rregullator (Akti i Tregjeve Dixhitale të BE-së), edhe Apple po detyrohet të hapet. Google po lëviz në drejtimin e kundërt: duke u përpjekur të forcojë më tej statusin e tij si mbikëqyrës portash.

"...vetëm 25 dollarë dhe pak letër punë?"

Ndoshta, nëse jeni një zhvillues në SHBA me një kartë krediti dhe një patentë shoferi. Provoni të jeni një student në Afrikën Subsahariane, ose një disident në Mianmar, ose një vullnetar që mirëmban një aplikacion shëndetësor komunitar. Kosta nuk është vetëm financiare: ju jeni duke dorëzuar dokument identifikimi dhe provë të çelësave tuaj të nënshkrimit një kompanie që rutinisht pajtohet me kërkesat e qeverive për të hequr aplikacione dhe ekspozuar zhvilluesit.

Luftoni kundër

Të gjithë

Zhvilluesit

Mos u regjistroni. Mos i bashkoni programit duke u regjistruar në Android Developer Console dhe pranuar Kushtet e tyre të parrrevokueshme. Mos verifikoni identitetin tuaj. Mos luani me rregullat e tyre.

Plani i Google funksionon vetëm nëse zhvilluesit pajtohen. Mos pajtoheni.

Punonjësit e Google

Nëse dini diçka për zbatimin teknik të programit ose arsyen e brendshme, kontaktoni tips@keepandroidopen.org nga një makinë jopune dhe një llogari jo-Gmail. Garanci absolute për konfidencialitetin.

All those opposed…

71 organizations from 23 countries have signed the open letter

F-Droid f-droid.org Forbrukerrådet forbrukerradet.no Tuta Mail tuta.com La Quadrature du Net laquadrature.net Ghostery ghostery.com The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) beuc.eu Fundación Karisma karisma.org.co iodé iode.tech FULU Foundation fulu.org Proton AG proton.me FACiL facil.qc.ca The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) fsfe.org FUTO futo.org Molly molly.im The Free Software Foundation (FSF) fsf.org ARTICLE 19 article19.org GrapheneOS Foundation grapheneos.org Osservatorio Nessuno OdV osservatorionessuno.org Vivaldi Technologies AS vivaldi.com Open Web Advocacy open-web-advocacy.org Nextcloud nextcloud.com LineageOS lineageos.org GNOME Foundation gnome.org Software Freedom Conservancy sfconservancy.org XMPP Standards Foundation xmpp.org Digital Rights Watch digitalrightswatch.org.au Brave brave.com Open Rights Group (ORG) openrightsgroup.org Rossmann Group rossmanngroup.com The Chaos Computer Club (CCC) ccc.de IzzyOnDroid izzyondroid.org epicenter.works – for digital rights epicenter.works Software Liberty Association of Taiwan slat.org.tw CryptPad cryptpad.org OpenMedia openmedia.org VideoLAN videolan.org Techlore techlore.tech European Digital Rights (EDRi) edri.org Data Rights datarights.ngo JMP.chat jmp.chat GNU/Linux València gnulinuxvalencia.org The OpenStreetMap Foundation (OSMF) osmfoundation.org /e/ Foundation e.foundation MetaBrainz Foundation metabrainz.org Italian Linux Society ils.org Privacy Guides privacyguides.org FOSDEM fosdem.org The Calyx Institute calyx.org The Guardian Project guardianproject.info Cryptee crypt.ee AdGuard adguard.com Rocky Linux rockylinux.org April april.org The Tor Project torproject.org Fedimedia fedimedia.it Codeberg e.V. codeberg.org Technopolice Bruxelles technopolice.be Aurora Store auroraoss.com Obtainium obtainium.imranr.dev Fastmail fastmail.com Digitale Gesellschaft digitale-gesellschaft.ch The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) eff.org KDE e.V. kde.org Unified Push unifiedpush.org The Digital Rights Foundation digitalrightsfoundation.pk The App Fair Project appfair.org GitHub Store github-store.org microG microg.org The Center for Digital Progress (D64) d-64.org OW2 ow2.org Associação Nacional para o Software Livre (ANSOL) ansol.org

Read the full open letter and thank the signatories →

Çfarë po thonë

Shtypi teknologjik

"Resistance to Google's Android verification grows among developers"

Techzine EU

"Keep Android Open"

Linux Magazine

"F-Droid Slams Google for Misleading Users About Android's App Verification"

Android Headlines

"F-Droid project threatened by Google's new dev registration rules"

Bleeping Computer

"Google will require developer verification to install Android apps, including sideloading"

9to5Google

"F-Droid says Google's new sideloading restrictions will kill the project"

Ars Technica

"Open-Source Android Apps at Risk Under Google's New Decree"

TechRepublic

"I've been an Android user for almost 15 years -- and Google's sideloading changes are pushing me back to iPhone"

Tom's Guide

"Google's dev registration plan 'will end the F-Droid project'"

The Register

"Open letter warns mandatory registration 'threatens innovation, competition, privacy and user freedom'"

Infosecurity Magazine

"Sideloading is dead for all intents and purposes. The Android you know and love is slowly disappearing."

Android Police

"An 'existential' threat to alternative app stores"

The New Stack

"Google's Apple envy threatens to dismantle Android's open legacy"

Ars Technica

"Android Security or Vendor Lock-In? Google's New Sideloading Rules Smell Fishy"

It's FOSS News

"Google's Android developer verification program draws pushback"

InfoWorld

"This will wipe out Android as an actual alternative to Apple's mobile OS offerings."

Hackaday

"Sideloading on Android? Soon It'll Be Like a TSA Check for Apps"

Android Headlines

"Google's new ID requirements could destroy independent app stores"

TechSpot

"Keep Android Open – Abwehr gegen Verbot anonymer Apps von Google"

heise online

"F-Droid Says Google Is Lying About the Future of Sideloading on Android"

How-To Geek

"Android's sideloading limits are its most anti-consumer move yet"

MakeUseOf

"Android app store provider Aptoide hits Google with fresh lawsuit alleging monopoly and anticompetitive chokehold"

Benzinga

"Android, Epic, and What's Really Behind Google's 'Existential' Threat to F-Droid"

Slashdot

"Google kneecaps indie Android devs, forces them to register"

The Register

"Google's New Developer Rules Threaten to End the F-Droid Open-Source App Store"

How-To Geek

"Google's Attack on Sideloading Will Rob Android of One of Its Best Features"

How-To Geek

"Google's Attack on Sideloading Will Rob Android of One of Its Best Features"

How-To Geek

"'Keep Android Open' Movement Challenges Google's Developer Verification Rule"

Open Source For U

"Google says it's making Android sideloading 'high-friction' to better warn users about potential risks"

XDA Developers

"Google will require developer verification for Android apps outside the Play Store"

TechCrunch

"I've been an Android user for almost 15 years -- and Google's sideloading changes are pushing me back to iPhone"

Tom's Guide

"Google's New Developer ID Rule Could Harm F-Droid"

Reclaim The Net

"Google plans to block side-loading like Apple, declaring war on Android freedom"

Tuta Blog

"Google will verify Android developers distributing apps outside the Play store"

The Verge

"Google's Requirement For All Android Developers To Register And Be Verified Threatens To Close Down Open Source App Store F-Droid"

Techdirt

"Google Clamps down On Android's Openness"

Internet Freedom Foundation (India)

"Google will make you wait 24 hours to sideload Android apps"

How-To Geek

"Google's developer registration 'decree' means the end for alternative app stores"

Cybernews

"Sideloading on Android? Soon It'll Be Like a TSA Check for Apps"

Android Headlines

"It effectively makes the Play Store a monopoly without actually mandating that it is a monopoly."

I-Programmer

"Over 67 groups urge the company to drop ID checks for apps distributed outside Play"

The Register

"Open-Source Android Apps Threatened by Google's New Policy"

Datamation

"Google's new developer rules could threaten sideloading and F-Droid's future"

Gizmochina

"We all know that's a load of bullshit. Adding a goddamn 24-hour waiting period is batshit insanity."

Thom Holwerda, OSnews

"Google is restricting one of Android's most important features, and users are outraged"

SlashGear

"F-Droid Says Google Is Lying About the Future of Sideloading on Android"

How-To Geek

Editoriale dhe analiza

Organizatat dhe letrat e hapura

"This extends Google's gatekeeping authority beyond its own marketplace into distribution channels where it has no legitimate operational role."

Open letter, over 67 signatory organizations

"When you set up a gate, you invite authorities to use it to block things they don't like. And when you build a database, you invite governments to try to get access."

Electronic Frontier Foundation

"Verification just confirms who's behind the app, it doesn't guarantee clean code or rule out malicious behavior."

AdGuard

"Android's biggest strength has always been its openness. That's what attracted developers and users in the first place."

AdGuard

"This is a profound change, one that shatters the entire premise of the Android ecosystem, long regarded as the antithesis of the closed Apple ecosystem."

AdGuard

"Google's abusive approach to the Android operating system has only gotten worse in recent years. Software freedom is sorely lacking in the 'computers in our pockets' we call cell phones."

Free Software Foundation

"For developers building tools specifically designed to protect user privacy, being forced to surrender their own personal data as a precondition for distribution is deeply contradictory."

AdGuard

"Google is turning Android into a walled garden monopoly. We must prevent it."

Osservatorio Nessuno

"Unilaterally consolidating power to approve software into the hands of a single unaccountable corporation is a threat to digital sovereignty everywhere."

Nextcloud

"Google's developer verification policy creates a centralized database, controlled by a single corporation, containing the real-world identity of every person who writes software for Android."

Brave

"Centralised, intransparent security architectures certainly help secure monetization and the market by locking out competitors."

Nextcloud

"Ultimately, Google's plan will stop you from owning your Android phone."

Tuta

"We are running out of time until Google becomes the gate-keeper of all users devices."

F-Droid

"Your Smartphone, Their Rules: How App Stores Enable Corporate-Government Censorship."

ACLU

"Google will cut off independent developers to Android if they do not register with Google first. This will kill independent platforms like F-Droid and severely impede FLOSS devs from creating apps for Android."

KDE

"Developers who build privacy-first browsers, encrypted messaging apps, VPNs, Tor-based software or tools for journalists and activists would be required to upload government ID to Google. These developers are unlikely to trust Google and might stop developing for Android."

Brave

"MEP Christel Schaldemose formally questioned whether Google's mandatory central registration is compatible with the Digital Markets Act."

European Parliament

"A centralized global registration system for Android will inevitably chill this work. Those communities are likely to drop out of developing for Android altogether."

Electronic Frontier Foundation

"Changes would impose barriers to entry for individual developers, small teams and volunteer projects by imposing fees, identity checks and terms that may not align with the principles of an open ecosystem."

Infosecurity Magazine

"Independent software distribution on Android will now require Google's explicit permission."

AdGuard

"While Android used to be praised for its freedom and independence, it will become a closed shop just like Apple."

Tuta

"Google Play itself has repeatedly hosted malware, proving that corporate gatekeeping doesn't guarantee user protection."

F-Droid

"Forcing software creators into a centralized registration scheme is as egregious as forcing writers and artists to register with a central authority."

F-Droid

"Developers who choose not to use Google's services should not be forced to register with, and submit to the judgement of, Google."

Open letter, over 67 signatory organizations

"A policy that forces every Android developer to hand their identity to Google, regardless of whether they use Google's services, makes Android a less-open and less-private platform."

Brave

"The European Pirate Party called for proportionate and transparent measures that ensure security without restricting innovation, limiting anonymity, or distorting competition."

European Pirate Party

"Nearly 50 organizations published an open letter opposing what they characterize as a 'kill switch for the open ecosystem.'"

Tech-ish Kenya

"If it were to be put into effect, the developer registration decree will end the F-Droid project and other free/open source app distribution sources as we know them today."

F-Droid

"Remember: It's your phone, your data, your freedom. Don't let Google take it away."

Tuta

"This invasion of privacy of developers is not just an overreach of Google's authority over Android, but also jeopardizes developer safety."

Software Freedom Conservancy

"There are governments who might very much like to know the names of the developers of those applications so that they can go after them."

Electronic Frontier Foundation

"We unequivocally advise against signing up for this program, now or ever."

F-Droid Open Letter

YouTuber-ët dhe krijuesit

"This means you can't sideload an app from an unofficial source. But it could also be used to lock the ecosystem so we're forced to install only Google apps on approved Google OS versions."

Rob Braxman Tech – Locals

"F-Droid is basically saying that the new Google developer registration process will likely kill the open-source app store entirely."

The Linux Experiment – YouTube

"Android has become what they set out to destroy."

Linus Sebastian, LMG Clips – YouTube

"Google already can disable malware that they find on your device. It's already a built-in feature. So what is developer registration actually adding here? Is it security or control? You decide."

Techlore – YouTube

"This is an iPhone now. I didn't want to buy an iPhone. I use Android because it gives me freedom. If you are not going to give me freedom with my computer, then why would I buy your stuff anymore?"

Louis Rossmann – YouTube

"This represents the last real safe place for free and open-source software in the entire mobile ecosystem. Once it's gone, it's gone. And we're going to spend the next decade trying to claw it back."

Techlore – YouTube

"Your device, their rules. The phone you bought and paid for is no longer really yours."

Tuta Blog – Blog

"This has obvious problems for non-Google operating systems like iodeOS, LineageOS, or BraxOS. Google Android will 'check in' with Google to verify the identity of the app and to validate the operating system."

Rob Braxman Tech – Locals

"The widely-circulated narrative that Google already backed down from this is false. They didn't, and that misunderstanding may be the most dangerous part of the story right now."

Techlore – YouTube

"I'm not using the word 'phone.' I'm using the word 'computer.' This has over 8 GB of RAM, a terabyte of storage. It's a computer. And I'm also not going to be using words like 'sideload.' When you download an exe file onto your Windows computer, you've installed an application. You haven't 'sideloaded' something."

Louis Rossmann – YouTube

"The fact of the matter is, this is my device. I paid a lot of money for it. I should be able to do with it what I want."

Switched to Linux – YouTube

"Google keeps getting in as much trouble as Apple when Google is half evil and Apple is full evil. So there are probably people inside Google saying, 'Why not just go full evil?'"

Louis Rossmann – YouTube

"Google decides what's safe for you, and you don't get a say."

fireborn – Blog

"Google is doing to Android what Microsoft once tried to do to the web. Embrace, extend, extinguish. Just wrapped in a shinier open-source package."

ChiefGyk3D – YouTube

"When you download applications, you've simply installed an application. I don't want to use words like 'sideload.'"

SomeOrdinaryGamers (Mutahar) – YouTube

"Imagine Dell told you that you could no longer install any operating system other than Windows on your laptop. That's what Google is doing to your phone."

SomeOrdinaryGamers (Mutahar) – YouTube

"If I'm going to be trapped in a walled garden anyway, I'll take the one that's built properly."

fireborn – Blog

"I have really no more strong reason to not recommend you all get iPhones, because this just is pretty much an iPhone with a Google logo on it at this point."

Techlore – YouTube

"Follow the money. Google makes money when apps are downloaded from its store. Google has completely forgotten about its earlier company motto: Don't be evil."

Tuta Blog – Blog

"A world where two tech companies from the same city that dominate all of our mobile devices both require centralized developer registration is a world with one more lever for surveillance, one more checkpoint for censorship."

Techlore – YouTube

"That's not openness. That is control."

ChiefGyk3D – YouTube

"Developers of privacy-focused tools and emulators will have to dox themselves, making them vulnerable to government agencies or legal action."

SomeOrdinaryGamers (Mutahar) – YouTube

"Google isn't testing this in the US or Europe first. They're starting in countries like Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Why? Because these are massive growth markets where regulation is weaker. By the time regulators catch up, the damage will already be done."

ChiefGyk3D – YouTube

"Google is removing the one key advantage Android has over iOS."

SomeOrdinaryGamers (Mutahar) – YouTube

"Every single time a company takes away your ability to do what you want with what you bought and paid for, every single time they twist a knife, we have to point it out."

Louis Rossmann – YouTube

"Google has been carefully watching from the sidelines to see what exactly it is that Apple can get away with."

Linus Sebastian, LMG Clips – YouTube

"Google is setting a requirement that only they can fulfill, forcing developers to go through Google and killing off thousands of apps. Countless users stranded."

Techlore – YouTube

Zhvilluesit dhe komuniteti

"Antitrust action is badly needed. It is ridiculous that I need permission from my device manufacturer to install software on hardware I own."

jim201, Hacker News

"Anyone else thinking this looks like a precursor to banning Signal and similar? 1) Put Google in control of what you can install. 2) Get Google to block it."

harry8, Hacker News

"After 15 years of professional development on Android I too am now thinking about switching my focus to something different. And it sucks."

MrDresden, Hacker News

"Google selling Android as both open source and open to running any software you like in order to quickly gain market share, only to break those promises after driving competing platforms out of the market is nothing more than fraud."

GeekyBear, Hacker News

"Google's own Play Store had over 600 million malware downloads. They keep talking about 'security' but their own store is crawling with fake apps and straight up malware while actual useful stuff gets buried or rejected."

Historical-Employ129 (324 upvotes), Reddit

"If I go down this path, I will stop all development on Android. I implore all other developers to resist this. This will completely lock down the platform forever, there will be no going back."

BatteryMountain, Hacker News

"This is a war on users that want to keep control of their phones and when it's done, you will not be able to escape the enshittification."

ikidd, Lemmy

"They're boiling the frog -- slowly removing features until all choice is gone."

hn92726819, Hacker News

"I hate this so much. More and more I get the feeling I have no control over the devices I own. My fear is that Windows will eventually follow. For security reasons of course. It's the path we're on now."

cheesyvoetjes, Reddit

"Modern life practically forces you to put all your eggs into a phone controlled by one of two profit-seeking companies."

koala, Lobsters

"I still remember how in the early days of Android vs iOS discussions, the main point was 'but it's OPEN!' The word 'open' was used as a comma by Google people. It was The Thing. The Difference. Good vs Evil and all that."

jwr, Hacker News

"Android is for everyone, provided they submit to Google exclusively."

gumby271, Hacker News

"I want to deploy apps on my device. They are my apps, it's my device, and I should not be required to ask for permission to do so."

fsniper, Hacker News

"Requiring a government ID to distribute software. Holy shit. If you are a kid and want to create a game for your friends, you better get that birth certificate ready!"

llitz, Reddit

"We are talking about something categorically worse than vendor lock-in: Collective vendor lock-in."

anordal, Lobsters

"I buy a device with my own money, which I supposedly then own, but then I need to ask some corporation permission to use it."

askonomm, Hacker News

"Google's plan to require developer verification would give Google and governments the ability to ban any app."

Zak, Hacker News

"Android was never actually open and now they are abandoning even the thin pretense."

Tiraon, Tildes

"Social engineering is destroyed with education, not with restriction and control. Trading freedom for safety eliminates both."

survirtual, Hacker News

"I teach digital literacy and 99% of unsavory software I encounter on people's phones come from the Play Store or App Store. I will believe they're serious about protecting users when I see them do something about the crap ton of borderline scam apps infesting their stores."

1995ToyotaCorolla, Lemmy

"Google wants the authority of a gatekeeper without the overhead of human accountability."

afferi300rina, Hacker News

"Any time someone puts a lock on something that belongs to you, and won't give you a key, they're not doing it for your benefit."

vord (quoting Cory Doctorow), Tildes

"Google seems to actively hate people who develop for their platforms."

hbn, Hacker News

"If the likes of Google, Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, and others have their way, you will not own your computer; those companies will effectively own your computers."

RUs1729, Slashdot

"Twice I have had to deal with Google silently disabling my drone app to the point I had to buy an older phone to perform work. When I purchase a device that works with another device, under no circumstances should I be at the mercy of any updates they make."

cbrophoto (drone professional), Reddit

"It is a disgrace how Google has managed this situation. The promised 'advanced flow' hasn't appeared in any Android 16 or 17 betas. Google is quietly proceeding with the original lockdown."

fermigier, Hacker News

"All the banking and payment apps in India refuse to open if you have developer mode on."

nibbleyou (developer in India), Hacker News

"There's an entire genre of scamming where the scammers spend months building rapport with their victims before cashing out. One day is nothing."

free_bip (on the 24-hour wait defeating scammers), Hacker News

"Brazil government app refuses to operate with developer mode on."

flykespice (developer in Brazil), Hacker News

"Google has no right to be my parent. As long as I can't reject paternalism, I don't believe for a second this is done with the well-being of scam victims as the main priority."

gspr, Lobsters

"Making it harder makes it harder to treat ourselves. Software like AndroidAPS is unique. It's hard to find or very expensive and inferior in the proprietary market."

pimeys (diabetic user on life-critical medical software), Lobsters

"The fundamental problem is that we are relying on the good graces of Google to keep Android open, despite the fact that it often runs contrary to their goals as a $4T for-profit behemoth. The 'don't be evil' days are very far behind us."

paxys, Hacker News

"It took them 17 years to finally pull the cage all the way shut."

Apocryphon, Hacker News

"Don't beg. Don't get in a position that freedoms depend on the whims of a corporation or willingness of a government to regulate them. Build."

jzb, Lobsters

"This isn't just a competition between app stores; it's a struggle for choice and dignity. Your phone shouldn't be a cage carefully constructed by others, but an extension of your own will."

renshijian, Hacker News

"For 'security' -- always security with these assholes. They're just building the walls of the walled garden higher."

lynxy, Tildes

"If your country is ever in the crosshairs of 'American interests' and bears the brunt of its sanctions, it is possible that you cannot install apps from your fellow citizens. Your own local government, bank, and store apps."

devsda, Hacker News

"If Android's sandbox and permission systems actually worked, then the mere act of installing an app from an arbitrary source would be as harmless as visiting an arbitrary website."

mwcampbell, Lobsters

"We need to start treating phones differently. We're entering a world where we can't choose what we run on them. Their primary purpose is to gather data on us and serve us advertising, they're engineered for addiction, yet engaging in the world is immensely difficult without one."

specproc, Hacker News

"Once deployed, there's a near 100% chance of such a mechanism being used for evil."

Zak, Lemmy

"The phrase 'sideload' is psychological propaganda we are all best off rejecting."

WaffleMonster, Slashdot

"You have no right telling me what I can and cannot run on my own devices."

MrZander, Hacker News

"Years ago, I wondered how Google would try to get away with locking down Android and shutting the cage door after capturing such a large dependent user base. Now I see how they are trying to get away with it."

chaznabin, Reddit

"Signal, VPNs -- they'll have a list of everyone opting out of government-mandated backdoors."

Max-P, Lemmy

"The open Android I knew and loved is long gone."

girvo, Hacker News

"You are essentially a child to them. The difference is society has decided not to step in to protect you from your abusive parents."

globular-toast, Hacker News

"Computing is infrastructure. Personal computers are a means of expressing agency. This is like banning people from moving furniture around their house without approval from mortgage lenders."

wervenyt, Tildes

"Some time in the future, we will look back to this era and ask ourselves what went wrong."

BenjaminRi, Lobsters

"Play store is full of scam apps, F-Droid isn't, but Play Store is considered secure. It's all theatre."

gcupc, Lobsters

"Google now has a flag on my phone they can control remotely to keep me from accessing the apps I want."

vala, Lemmy

"Give me liberty or give me Symbian."

masterofn001, Lemmy

"Can't come at a worse time. People are just learning to make things through vibe coding, and they're gonna want to put their own apps on their phones. And now Google says no."

Serinus, Lemmy

"It's not cyclic. It's a ratchet and it gets tighter and tighter."

BenjaminRi, Lobsters

"They have stolen a free product and are now actively locking out the people who built it."

TheTearMiser, Lemmy

"My Pixel 6 just broke, and after 15 years of using Android, I've finally been convinced to move to iOS. If I must live in a walled garden, I suppose I'll choose the one with nicer flowers."

yonato, Hacker News

"The war on General Purpose Computing is the death of innovation and a direct attack on digital freedom."

layfellow, Hacker News

"Whatever Google is doing kind of scares me. We have a big DIY community of diabetics in Germany running tools like AndroidAPS that cannot ever be distributed through official channels."

pimeys (Type 1 diabetic, DIY medical software), Lobsters

"'Sideload' is like 'jaywalking'; seeks to stigmatize humans being human."

tejtm, Hacker News

"Software gatekeeping is a threat to human rights. Just recently an app to track ICE was banned from the iOS app store even though this should clearly be protected first amendment speech."

gthing, Reddit

Zërat nga peticioni

"To block sideload in all newer Android devices, not only for Pixel phones that Google own, is not going to enhance user's safety. It makes life more difficult for developers and you are taking away one of the only things that made Android better than Apple. If Google really wanted to enhance users' safety, they would verify better apps on their Play Store or implement a better antivirus that could scan apks and check for malware. I bought my phone and my tablet with my hardwork and money, I am not a child to not know what I should or shouldn't install inside my phone. Imagine if I couldn't install a necessary software in my computer or test my code just because Microsoft didn't approve of it? That would be absurd. It is my responsibility to know what I can or cannot install in my device, that is not up to a multi-billion company to decide. By blocking sideload, Google is breaking the trust they had from thousands of developers and millions of users of this OS. "

Bianca, change.org

"hopefully this does not become one more avenue for freedom and expression that gets restricted by corprate over greed and government overreach. "

manz, change.org

"Open source exploration is too important to add any additional barriers to entrance. I expect it's bad for all of us, including alphabet and Google, the aosp... a new open model may rise from a push such as this. Really though, don't be evil, please "

Eric, change.org

"Interesting how F-droid has been successfully been managing their own repo for years while simultaneously maintaining user and developer privacy, yet Google suddenly decides user safety is such an important thing that they have to sacrifice developer privacy on Android and conveniently have what apps users are allowed to install regulated by them and only them. If this was something they were doing on their store it would be disruptive, but developers who don't want to fork over pictures of their government ID, and 25 dollars apparently, could distribute their apps elsewhere. The privacy implications of forcing every developer, regardless of the distribution platform they use, to validate their government ID through a centralized source is far beyond the pale of Google's responsibilities and a major violation of privacy. The fact that they're even able to make a move like this should be treated as a travesty. It's not pro consumer either. As it stands today, users may choose to install apps from other appstores, including ones focused on open source software and privacy. Should Google's policy go into effect, they get to determine what apps we're allowed to install on the phones we bought and paid for. This alongside the sweeping age verification we've been seeing everywhere feels less focused on actual safety as opposed to surveillance. If I wanted a walled garden, I'd have gotten an apple phone. If this crap keeps up, I'm gonna have to search for a Linux phone whether they're ready for mass adoption or not. "

Pyre, change.org

"We have the right to have a place to escape the clutches of big corporations. "

Miguel, change.org

"I've been using Android for 10+ years instead of iOS sorely because of how open it is. I can customize a lot of my phone for convenience, looks, accessibility; I can download programs from F-Droid or games from Itch.io. Removing that or making it significantly harder is a deal breaker for me. "

Lucas A, change.org

"Because Google shouldn't force control on its users "

Jaden, change.org

"That's definitely not what most people choosing Android signed up for. What is left of Android if it becomes a closed system like iOS? "

Martin, change.org

"Being able to install "unverified" apps from third party app repositories has allowed me to discover ad-free software that fits my needs perfectly that aren't available on the Google Play store. Removing support for "unverified" apps would destroy all ability for me to use the phone I purchased how I see fit. "

Nella, change.org

"If wee do not stop this then our computers are next. We will end up the same as other countries who put out the same message to their people to condition them. Our freedom of speech and the right to privacy under the privacy act will be taken away. You do not want this!!! "

Keith, change.org

"This solution simply doesn't make sense. It's not our fault, or the fault of all developers, that people don't know what to do to verify or install an application that isn't malicious. In my opinion, this should come enabled normally on new smartphones, but with a developer option to disable it. You don't have to complicate everything and force us to use an adb command just to install an unverified application. That simply doesn't exist. I provided the solution. "

Saulo, change.org

"Digital freedom matters! "

Koda, change.org

"Ceasing to monopolize everything under the guise of "user security" only harms millions of independent developers and the users who consume their apps "

Angeles, change.org

"I have contributed to FOSS apps that were published to Google play and F-Droid + similar stores, as well as written multiple apps for myself and family members. Android has long been an open platform that actually gives the user(s) freedom to do what they want with the device they own. However, that free and open model is coming under threat more and more in the name of "security" all while collecting and monetizing our user data. We do not need another walled garden Apple experience. Android users use Android BECAUSE of choice and freedom, not in spite of it. "

Christopher, change.org

"One of the reasons that people want to use Android is because of its freedom in installing apps. Locking it is like shooting your feet. "

John, change.org

"Im hating Google for this, i hope they not do this to Android system "

Pepino, change.org

"Removing a huge part of why people choose android is certainly a choice. "

Drae, change.org

"This decision is about maximizing revenue. And it is Google's near monopoly they are leveraging to do it, despite the negatives for every other person and organisation. Forcing users out of Android with this decision only increases pressure for real alternatives to Android on the smartphone OS, and in the end is Google shooting themselves in the foot. Bit it hurts us too. It's cheaper and easier for everyone to maintain the status quo. Please don't do this, as it erases now decades of work by thousands (millions?) of developers around the world. "

Oliver, change.org

"As an Android user, I'm really worried about the new requirement for mandatory developer registration that’s supposed to start in September 2026. The openness of Android has always been what sets it apart and offers real benefits to developers, hobbyists, and users. Features like sideloading and direct app sharing are vital for innovation, privacy, and community-driven software. I hope Google reconsiders this policy and makes sure there’s a simple, low-effort way for users to opt out if they want to install unverified apps. "

Vyacheslav, change.org

"Our phone, our rights. Open source is freedom. We will not comply, we will turn to alternatives. "

Foghorne, change.org

"We need to continue to have options on the android platform. Once censorship begins where does it end. Developers need to have freedom and not be oppressed by greed. Side-loading is what makes ANDROID if that is taken, what makes Android unique it’s just like IOS a walled garden. "

Edgar, change.org

"This it’s important to all and Google shouldn’t be doing this our company overlords can’t take more from us we need to stand up "

James, change.org

"Authoritarians, I know you want the whole pie, but if you aspire for it we will make sure you lose the majority you already hold. "

Josh, change.org

"The whole point of Android was it was an os that gave you the freedom to use your phone the way you wanted unlike apple this ruins it's whole purpose "

Cem, change.org

"Trying to avoid strangleholds and controlling policies like this is literally the exact reason i use Android over Apple products, this is a massive step backwards for Android that sets a major precedent for censorship and monopolization that i absolutely loathe, this WILL make me significantly more likely to avoid Android and use other brands in the future if gone through with. This isn't protecting anyone, it's just a sickening bid for even more power and control. "

Grace, change.org

"Remember when google was cool? "

Andrew, change.org

"Google shouldn’t have the power to take away choice from users and developers "

Job, change.org

"I object to being forced to use Google "approved" bloatware and non-open source software on my devices. "

Kinene, change.org

"The biggest reason I use Android is that I'm free of the lockdown and monitoring imposed by Apple. If Google locks out developers then the system I love will perish. "

Samuel, change.org

"I chose to use Android devices specifically due to the control that I, as an end user, have over my files and the programs I chose to install on them. Even if a program comes from an independent programmer, even from other countries stores (like RuStore), even if it an open source app (like the ones from F-Droid), or just choosing to use Telegram from the first and most reliable source ever- the developer's website itself. I once had an iOS device and I totally detested how locked up it was, it was almost as if I were digitally "high jacked", depending on authorisation to do anything! Please don't remove us our freedom of doing to our devices our own experiments, finding and developing emulators for our old games and apps that suit our needs even if they're not economically viable. Plus: Don't take away the one tool many persecuted Christians around the world have to download Bibles to their phones. That's cruel and inhumane. "

Barbara, change.org

"As consumers, we are entitled to the full functionality of the technology we purchase. This includes the freedom to choose how we use our devices and what software to run on them. Google claims their efforts to lock down Android are for security purposes, but their true motivations are based in a incessant need for control and financial gain. Malware concerns have never justified sideloading restrictions on computers, regardless of OS - so why would they suddenly apply to their pocket-sized counterparts? Smartphones serve as the primary drivers enabling both our personal and professional lives, online and offline. Big tech’s desire to rob the people’s agency and ownership over such vital technology through needless restrictions and invasive surveillance for an extra dime clearly shows their lack of integrity and respect for the consumer. Removing the freedom of choice from Android means creating a landscape where all mobile technology will never truly serve their users as all tools should. Coming from someone who has used both Android and iOS devices, I have learned how indispensable the freedom provided by Android really is, even for an average user. Google’s willingness to restrict their users, destroying Android’s greatest strength and its legacy is extremely disappointing. I do not want to live in a world where all technology becomes a series of “walled gardens” as Apple has notoriously made their own phones. We deserve to own our technology, not be owned by our technology. "

Jurrien, change.org

"Google, don't make me get the spray bottle. "

Skipps, change.org

"The only way for android to compete with Apple is to allow side loading apps. If you remove this what is the selling point of ANDROID! "

Kendall, change.org

"Welp if APK files limited then there is no need for us to use android from now on. "

Emir, change.org

"In this day and age, most of the rich and powerful are attempting to restrict the choices normal people have, and Google attempting to limit the open-source nature of Android is just one more example of this. What Google is doing is not protecting anyone and only serves to limit what we are allowed to do, and I don't want to idly stand by as the rich become richer. "

Joseph, change.org

"Been using the android platform since 2009. Removing the ability to use MY device in the way it was always intended is disgusting. I won't stand for any of that hogwash. "

Kurt, change.org

"As a long-time Android user and small-scale app developer, I'm deeply concerned about the recent moves to restrict app sideloading. Choice has always been the core strength of Android—it's what set it apart as an open operating system. Forcing users to become "approved developers" just to build and install personal apps is impractical and unnecessary; I simply don't have the time or interest in jumping through those hoops. This shift feels like the start of broader censorship and monopolization, transforming Android into little more than a reskinned version of iOS. We chose Android for its freedom, not for anti-consumer restrictions that claim to "protect" us but really just limit our options. Existing tools like Knox and Play Integrity are already intrusive enough—now even downloading from trusted alternatives like F-Droid or other third-party stores might face scrutiny? This erodes the open spirit that defined Android from the beginning. Users deserve the right to create, modify, and install apps without sacrificing anonymity or control. It's our responsibility to educate ourselves on risks, not for big tech like Google (or GAFAM) to dictate terms. Android's appeal has always been its flexibility: I've sideloaded niche apps from lone developers for unique tasks, like custom music players and compass tools from F-Droid. I've even installed modded versions of stock apps, such as a camera tweak that added Google Pixel's Photosphere to my device—something impossible without sideloading. There's no need for Android to head in this restrictive direction; it risks becoming a "mock iOS," stripping away the very reasons people like me chose it. Let's restore customization, user freedom, and innovation to the heart of Android. Please, reconsider this path—it's not protection; it's control. "

Mike, change.org

"Hold Google accountable to the original vision of Android. Stop Google from limiting APK file usage. "

Jeff, change.org

"I've relied on a third-party adblocker to disable adverts throughout my entire phone, and pulling this stunt would jeopardise such wishes not to have adverts in literally every single application I use. I do not want the Android OS to become iOS in being unnecessarily strict on sideloading and people's rights to download any apps they want that might not be on the Play Store. Google, you NEED a reality check if you really think being anti-consumer is going to "help" anybody in their lives. "

Finn, change.org

"Android needs to remain about choice not a locked down OS like Apple, that's the reason I and so many others choose android "

Sean, change.org

"I want to be able to load any arbitrary APK onto my own phone. I should not be limited or made so suffer in any way because some bad actors take advantage of naive people who act irresponsibly. It is my choice to install my own software or F-Droid or anything. Taking that choice away means Android has no value to me as a product. "

Seamus, change.org

"We want digital sovereignty for democracy! "

Kelly, change.org

"Android has always been the more free-range mobile OS. Had this not been the case, I would have switched to Apple long ago. Open-source, third-party software has driven the Android ecosystem and app development. It's no coincidence this is coming at a time when surveillance and squashing opposition is rising parallel with fascism. "

Kahina, change.org

"I switched to android specifically because I felt like it was truly a device I OWNED. I used Apple in the past but hated the amount of features that were gate kept. Having the ability to download open source apps on my android device has reshaped the way I use my phone and has made my workflows significantly better. This new change will not only completely destroy the open source ecosystem I've become accustomed to, but will actively turn away myself, and Android's main user base. What's the point of ruining your reputation and the only real reason to own an android device? "

Steven, change.org

"Perhaps Google shares the same ideals as that damned communist country of China; they want to take away our freedom. "

Henrique Kelvin Alves da, change.org

"Limiting the installation of APK files (sideloading) is bad because it turns Android, known for its openness, into a "walled garden" similar to Apple's. This restriction strips users of their freedom, treating them as if they cannot make decisions about their own devices. Furthermore, it stifles competition and innovation. Alternative app stores, like F-Droid (focused on open-source), and developers testing their apps are directly harmed. This forces everyone to depend exclusively on the Google Play Store, giving Google total control over the market and what you can or cannot install, often under the guise of "security." In the end, it's a trade-off of Android's fundamental freedom for centralized corporate control. "

Lucas de arruda, change.org

"Save APK files!! We need emulators to test it out. And I’ve never use android before, I feel like using it for the future. Please save them!! "

Deryl, change.org

"I have found great use of android APKs. Because of them I can run comunity devoulped apps like Winalator, a Wine wraper for android, allows me to play windows games on my phone. Theres also PhoneVR, a free and open source app allowing me and many others to rededicate old phones into capable VR headsets, for free! I also get to play old games like Asphalt 8 retry, a mod that fixes alot of the pay-to-win gripes of Asphalt 8's current form. Same goes for Bad Piggies reborn, a free comunity mod adding loads of content and improvments to the origonal game! Not to mention open source app stores like FDroid. By locking down android, your losing support from people like me. Do you really want to kill the reason android is great? Just for a few dollars more? Are you going to just dismiss the people that made you great? We're not just numbers on a spread sheet you know, we're people too. We don't need protected by governments and companys. All that does is remove freedom, dehummanize people, and make people who cant think for themselfs. Whats next? Burning books? In the direction we're heading, we're not far from becoming the socity in Ferenheight 451. "

George, change.org

"this would complete googles monopoly "

Alessandro, change.org

"As someone who enjoys playing modded versions of games, or even fan-games such as FNaF World: Refreshed, I feel as though limiting such use of apks is turning a blind eye. And forcing many people to reveal their real information, info that's sensitive in my opinion isn't safe. I used to feel safer and confine to android, but now I'm not really sure anymore if this is what you consider "safe". "

Ujjal, change.org

"I am the founder of Yale Privacy Lab, where we have investigated privacy and security issues in Android apps since 2017. I can say without hesitation that this change makes Android users less safe. Android is based upon free and open source software (FOSS) and that has always been defined by user choice. Blocking the capability to install apps directly from trusted sources outside Google Play is not a small tweak. It removes a core freedom. We should not need permission to run software on devices we own. Framing this change as protection does not reflect the reality of the Android ecosystem. Google Play has long allowed unsafe apps, invasive tracker SDKs, and supply chain threats that slip through automated review. Independent audits have consistently revealed these issues inside of Google Play, even *after* Google claims to have scrubbed. For example, the X-mode SDK persisted long after it was banned in the USA by the FTC enforcement action, and was still present in many Google Play apps until Google was called out by my own investigation. Initially, Google responded by saying I was wrong but then acknowledged their error in press. Long after that, other tracker SDKs associated with X-mode and the wider ad-tech surveillance economy have persisted. In many cases, the safer and more privacy-conscious option is to use F-Droid to install apps. F-Droid is just one organization that is much more serious than Google about checking the safety of their catalog of apps. Sometimes, the safest option is installing APKs directly from trusted developers. These methods can avoid ad trackers, surveillance code, and unwanted data sharing. To cut off these options is to put many activists, journalists, whistleblowers, and ordinary users at risk. "

Sean, change.org

"You have to ask yourself. What is google's motivation and it's simple power ingredient "

D., change.org

"well ima an artist and i dont have much money wich mean i cant even afford to even exist sometimes but using open source tools and side loading allows me to even have a chance to compete e end with other artists who may be alot more wealthy or privlaged .not only that its my right as Amarican citizen since the first amendment i have every right to free speach and self expression and to extension the Bible as a divine right giving to me as a human being from god him self and every other living thing on this eath across the world and even the universe if you will.my freedom mean i have a chance if you take that way that make things harder for everyone not just the ones that already had nothing. ppl are willing to do so much if you give them even the smallest chance if it mean achieving there dreams so ,plz reconsider. as some one whos used google practically for evey single input in there os its turned me into someone better then even i could imagine and bough me so much hope. i think it would break my heart if you didn't. "

light, change.org

"My device is my device. "

arianna, change.org

"The internet should be free for all "

Ev, change.org

"This change would kill the biggest reason I use Android, because I have the freedom to sideload useful apps that aren't available in the official store. I have never once bought an iPhone, but Apple's comparative respect for user privacy seems preferable now, so I'll most likely make the switch. "

Raymond, change.org

"For the freedom of an open and universal system for all! "

Zaphyru's, change.org

"Google doesn't realise that for many Android users, the ability to install .apk files from unverified developers is the sole reason we don't flock to IOS or another mobile OS. Let's make sure they know. "

Marshall, change.org

"The only reason I own any Android devices is the ease with which I can load my own self-written programs. Creating friction in the form of forcing me to register or jump through hoops to run my programs will 100% cause me to abandon the platform, as easy, no-contract installation of software is literally the only feature of Android that I actually like (the OS is generally not very reliable, the usability is poor, and easy side loading is the only feature that differentiates the system from iOS.) It sure seems to me that with this plan, Google must really want to help Apple sell iPhones and iPads. If you remove the openness of Android, all Apple will need to do is release a cheaper phone and tablet than what Samsung has in order to destroy Android forever. Google overestimates the degree to which Android users are locked in to the platform; most Android users have it because Android phones are cheaper than iPhones. The rest of us are programmers who like our freedom, and this platform hostility will drive us away, which won't be good for the Google Play Store's selection of effort-free profits for Google. "

Casey, change.org

"I love Android for its freedom. Freedom to choose where software/apps are obtained and downloaded from. Its why i switch from apples locked down model to Android. This measure only hurts consumers and the Android community. This will limit the us to 2 locked down eco systems. The douopoly worked because Android was open and we had freedom! "

Salvatore, change.org

"Also consider giving money towards the Graphene OS at grapheneos.org/donate "

Adam, change.org

"It's a no to big brother and feeling myself fold up when I look at my phone "

William, change.org

"There is no valid reason to do this except greed and control. If someone installs malicious software on their own device thats their issue. "

Jonathan, change.org

"first off i bought this phone i should have the right to put what ever program i want on it, I'm already upset so many things are locked behind root access my wife is a programmer and she fiddles with android programs. this would mean she can't do this anymore. it makes it a lot harder for indie android programmers to get started "

Joshua, change.org

"As someone who regularly uses apk files on my phone to help fight loneliness and to prevent myself from taking my own life, DO NOT TAKE AWAY OUR FILES!! "

Eric, change.org

"We have the right to use our phones as we like. DON'T BREAK OUR FREEDOM "

Ferdari, change.org

"First they monopolize the internet, then they banned adblocks, and now they are coming after one of the last truly open platforms people still have. This is not just about Android, it is about the direction the entire digital world is heading. If we do not push back now, there may soon be no open platforms left. "

Maxim, change.org

"Android since it start has its premisse of being a free place that you can do what you want, but with this change it is not possible anymore. This is restricting user freedom and censoring what can and cannot be displayed at android. "

Kaio, change.org

"Technology should forever remain in a position to assist and enrich the lives of everyone, not to control, limit, or profit from the average person who was PAID to own a product, and simply wishes to make their life easier. "

Evan, change.org

"Keep Android Open. We are not letting you form a monopoly, Google. It's OUR devices. If you continue with this, you'll remove one of the only reasons most people are not with Apple: freedom. So think about it. "

Bruno Leonel, change.org

"As an Android developer myself, putting restrictions on an OS that people use to escape the restrictions of — let's say — iOS is a really bold and unconditional move. "

EXPOSED, change.org

"Google needs to STOP! Taking away MY Right to choose what apps I will or won't use is completely UNACCEPTABLE and ILLEGAL! Freedom of Choice has always been a hallmark of the Android lifestyle. Unlike Apple's closed-box system, Android's relatively open nature gives me the ability to choose FOSS apps over paid closed-source apps, saving me both money AND the lost sleep over repeated worries about tracking, ads and spyware in the apps I regularly use. Google's recent decision to lock the system down and force devs to pay huge "membership" fees, surrender ALL their rights under a TOS that is AGAINST them developing without providing the ID and private signature keys and listing any application IDs they have. If this isn't the behavior of a monopoly, than please define to me what is?! "

Stephen, change.org

"Android was created as an open platform. That openness made custom ROMs, alternative app stores, and independent FOSS projects possible. Limiting third-party APK installation reduces user choice and hurts independent developers. Security matters, but it should not remove legitimate options. Keeping Android open protects innovation and freedom of choice. "

Kevyn, change.org

"As an android guru who runs a blog on getting the best out of android who often recommends and personally use many side loaded apps since a lot of the best apps are on places like f droid and sinilar places but not on google. Ultimately its sad to see android and apple be these walled gardens "

L, change.org

"Let me sideload my Android apps. "

Stephan, change.org

"I have used android since the begining and the entire reason ive stuck with it (and this has been getting VERY hard lately with all the locking down of android, version by version, more and more like iOS).. this would just be the nail in the coffin for android, for me.. I'd rather daily drive graphene or a very limited linux os than this. Really a shame though when you talk people into using android and all the reasons people choose to switch are being removed. This is something im a single issue voter on, I will cease all google/yt/gemini/etc subscriptions and use the day I can't sideload any app I please.. and this is a complete change for the device, so massive of a change (would have directly affected many of my purchases) that I dont get how they can just do it, literally the stuff that made it special they choose to gut.. "

Joshua, change.org

"It's serious that Android is doing this to those who make independent games, or stealing our data under the guise of security. I want to speak out because this is unfair. "

Cesar, change.org

"Keep android open source, resist surveillance and ID verification. Consider switching to Grapheneos "

Andrew, change.org

"I've always said the reason I was an android user and not an iPhone user was due to the fact that the system was not locked down allowing more advanced use cases. Not to mention allowing individuals to create their own apps and learn without being subjected to fees and restrictions. Can't wait for the linux phone sector to start growing in response just like what is happening to Windows / PC market space. "

Chris, change.org

"It's Android's openness that has allowed its development and evolution to this day. To close it would break the promise of an open system and deprive users of great freedom! "

Stark, change.org

"Google is long overdue to be broken up like AT&T was and this blatantly anti consumer decision to lock down Android proves this. "

Kris, change.org

"They literally block sideloading with this and always using "security" as an excuse, they never will accept all dev, and also who give they the right to get ID of dev. Put in you place, you are a company in a democratic country, we give you power The solution for this is stop using google services, give they a prove of power, they depend of us because we give them money, stop using google service, and fight against this injustice Google is evil, and right now they are shown they craws "

Juan, change.org

"We choose Android because it's open and free. "

Flora, change.org

"ts bullshit fr fr ive been tinkering with Android for a long long long time now and its part of the reason im even into tech so much. the sheer amount of freedom Android allows is truly amazing and so help me god if they take it away "

silly, change.org

"The ONLY reason why i stay with android is because of the freedom. That is literally the only thing that makes android stand out compared to apple and is the reason why I stayed with android my whole life . If this change does happen and that freedom gets taken away . Im definitely going to switch to apple as there is no reason to entertain android/google anymore . Google , take note of your communities feelings on this matter and understand the risks from an financial stand point on how negatively this will impact your sales. I'm flat out saying you will lose me at least who is a loyal android and google supporter. If im willing to leave , imagine the rest of the community. "

Vincenzo, change.org

"We can stand together to save Android and keep downloading what we love on our Android devices! "

Austin, change.org

"Sideloading is only reason I use an Android phone. You will lose many users because of this decision. "

Niall, change.org

"I've received pornographic viruses from puzzle games from the Google Play store. Google should remember why people go Android; Apple has locked down their systems to make them unbearable. Android gave freedom. If they lock it down, we'll use something else. I'm looking forward to a dumb phone and a physical camera...no annoying social media there. Or Google holding your money for you. Google offers nothing I need to use except an email, and last I checked, anyone offers those. The programs I love can be accessed on both Android AND PC...guess which I'll be shifting to! "

Kay, change.org

"I've always loved android because of the freedom to download apps. Now that Google has decided to lock the bootloader, we need to do something so it stays customizable or else. I will switch to a Linux phone if this happens. "

Andrew, change.org

"The possibility of one of the only features that could jumpstart and maintain rising developers ambitions and the Android community; being able to install any files into their systems getting smothered is a nightmare for anyone who has been sticking to Android themselves due to its customization (I will protect my self-made Miku UI with my life). Going against the reasons of Android's strengths WILL be a bad idea and would force the people to find lower alternatives, whether they are better or not can't be gauged when this move destroys the baseline of a free and modifiable OS. Please listen to the community that is yelling to not aim at poor Bugdroid's shins... "

Ken, change.org

"There are games, apps, that are FREE, because the authors want it that way, no charge. WHY SHOULD GOOGLE WIN MONEY WITH THEM??? "

Ana, change.org

"This is a thinly veiled attempt by Alphabet towards an easier monopoly on apps and the more restrictive economy that Apple has on its own software economy. This uncompetitive and restrictive behavior is directly harmful to both consumers and developers, not in the least to mention freedom and privacy overall as well. "

Emily, change.org

"Android shines in giving the user freedom to use their devices however they choose to. If Google closes down on this freedom, in my use case as a power user I will be unable to install apps any except from the play store which is a platform that is littered with bad app that are useless and sometimes they cost money making it unnecessarily difficult for Indy devs working on apps whether it for job or weekend project. However if Google clean up the play store they could implement a feature to ask the user at device setup and changeable in settings to manage how strict or lax they what the security to be, or just help support the graphene os project to have a secure android operating system and fix play integrity for Google pay, tap to pay to work. "

Cristian, change.org

"No reason to own a google device if I am limited in what I can do with it. "

Salvatore, change.org

"Android was built on FOSS foundations and this anti-consumer move goes against the guiding tenants of the OS and Google's mission. No-one who uses Android wants to see Google pervert it into a second-rate apple. This move is a violation of consumer faith and a bad long-term business decision. Revert it in it's entirety before you loose the core attraction of your product. "

Tate, change.org

"Stop Google "

Sa, change.org

"I sent info and link to large group of IT guys on WhatsApp and also on my Facebook: Google, being in a dominant position, wants to block the ability to install applications on Android phones from independent developers - enthusiasts. "

Zibi, change.org

"I use sideloaded android apps all the time! They are very useful to have. Android removing this feature will be detrimental to me and many other android users. "

Ian, change.org

"Mobile devices have become such integral, personalized focal points in our lives over the last few decades, but not everyone uses their devices the same way. Having the choice of what software we choose to use and where to install from has been a key part of Android since its beginning and has been an important keystone of consumer choice. Removing those choices and putting up barriers to entry for development would be a huge blow to consumer rights. "

Scott, change.org

"I am a lifelong android user who uses 3rd party apps and would lose much of the functionality of how I use my phone if this update goes through. I would likely stop using the app store and use platforms like F-Droid even more. "

Emily, change.org

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