A new Android malware from Google(f-droid.org)
680 points by drewfax 8 hours ago | 276 comments
tl;dr: F-Droid is framing Google's upcoming Android Developer Verification (ADV) program as malware, arguing it silently installs a system service that will block apps from developers not centrally registered with Google. They object to the vague definition of "malware" in Google's terms (which could be used against ad blockers or competitors) and note the rollout begins September 30 in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. F-Droid warns this threatens sideloading, its own existence, and 18 years of open Android development, despite widespread opposition from EFF, FSF, ACLU, and others.
HN Discussion:
  • Google's account termination practices are draconian and cascade destructively across all their services
  • Google is betraying Android's original open promise after achieving market dominance
  • Users should migrate to alternative OSes like GrapheneOS or Linux-based mobile systems
  • The article's emotional/childish framing undermines F-Droid's credibility and cause
  • ~Practical resistance is difficult given hardware monopolization and cost of alternatives