Comment by maccard

> Every single thread on this topic devolves into "if you don't like Apple just use Android" or vice versa and it's so predictable and boring.

But this is exactly why this whole topic isn’t an issue. There currently _is_ choice, competition, and a viable alternative in the marketplace (unlike in the web browser space for example where chrome is eating everyone’s lunch).

> and if the only way for them to reach us for technical reasons is through native apps, then they're subject to whatever insane policies and fees these companies demand.

> based purely on preference, like "no porn", "no game emulators Except it’s not. PWAs and websites exist. People can watch, and pay for porn on safari just like they can on their laptop or desktop computer. Emulators you have a point in, but on my first point - if you want a platform that lets you bring your own toys, android lets you install them.

> charging a 30% tax

It’s not a tax. It’s a platform fee. If it was a tax, it would be applied to web browser purchases too, or all purchases made through Apple/Gooblr pay. I am perfectly free to distribute my android emulator via patreon and provide an APK to install and have been for a long time.

> Also your example with Meta's apps is a false dilemma. If you want to use their apps you can always install them from their own hypothetical app store, your choice isn't being taken away from you and it doesn't make the platform any less viable.

So it’s only a false dilemma when you disagree? My choice is being restricted in this. I want to use metas services, I don’t want to give them the keys to the kingdom. If they ship a meta store, then they don’t need to adhere to apples store rules (which is exactly the point) meaning they can do whatever they want. If I wanted that, I’d use another platform that exists where meta are free to publish a Facebook app that doesn’t adhere to the platform Guidelines.

> Can you elaborate on how this applies to your usage of Facebook?

I didn’t say this about Facebook, I used meta as one example of a service provider. I can give you another instead though - the App Store rules require Apple Pay as options for all apps. I trust Apple to handle and manage my payments appropriately, but I don’t trust ketchapp (they make shovelware games that are ad ridden and iap infested hell holes.) if ketchapp decide they want to collect extra data and not pay the “tax”, then they can publish a new ketchapp store where I can play their games, subject to their rules, i.e. they now manage my card payments directly. I don’t trust _them_ to not have dark patterns around subscription management, payment methods etc.