Just to add, there are multiple app stores available for Android devices. I hate Google, but this seems like an odd attack at first glance
Because they make deals with manufacturers to ensure only google play is loaded on, and that the bootloader is locked so custom ROMs can’t be easily installed. If they decline, they lose the right to ship w/ google play, and therefore piss of the average user.
Not just a coincidence that the only flagship devices on the market with an unlockable bootloader are made by Google. If you want to use android without them in a secure manner, you’re going to have to pay them for it.
This makes a lot more sense, and was the information I was missing. Thank you. As others have pointed out though, last I knew Samsung shipped with their own store
But that doesn’t speak towards the Apple side, which locks their app store and hardware as well.
Apple has stranglehold over their devices.
Google has a stranglehold over theirs, and everyone else’s who isn’t either Google or built to serve a sanctioned (by the U.S.) foreign market like China or Russia.
