Comment by dns_snek
19 days ago
All of those are fine things to expect from Google Play but the point is moot because this verification would also apply to apps installed from external sources where they shouldn't have any jurisdiction.
Google, just like Apple, should be free to enforce any kind of verification they deems necessary on Google Play, as long as they allow third party stores to be on equal footing, which they don't.
I agree. we should be able to install apps we want to install. But if you're installing them from the Google Play store (which is what is discussed) then you should be allowed to know who you're doing business with.
> But if you're installing them from the Google Play store (which is what is discussed)
Maybe there's been a miscommunication somewhere but Android Developer Verification (what this thread is about) applies to all apps, even those installed outside of Google Play store.
I understand. The author is critiquing a specific part of this policy: forcing developers to identify themselves. Their main point is not about allowing app developers to sideload.