Comment by b112

The built in Android SMS app seems to be horrible in every incarnation I've seen. The one that comes with the Pixel, the one Samsung has. Some may like it, but I can't stand them. I tend to install my own SMS app in each case, and I don't use computers to be locked into something I don't prefer.

It's my tool. Mine. I'll do with it as I please.

I agree there are issues. But preventing installs aren't the answer, just like removing all windows and doors from a house isn't the answer to neighbourhood crime.

I'd be more inclined to say the problem is allowing apps to be funded by advertising. If all apps were paid apps, and using personal data in any way was immensely, "thrown in jail" illegal, then you'd find yourself approving access to contacts, SMS, Pii quite rarely.

It would really stand out in such a case.

"What?! I've been using my phone for 10 years, and some app wants to see my contacts. Why?? No one reputable asks for that, ever!"

So much of the problem with the internet is that Pii is paying the way.

On GrapheneOS, when I install anything, it flat out asks me if I want to give it internet access at all. SMS could be the same way. Off by default, try to grant it, big warnings.

At a certain point, if you have big warnings saying "Are you serious?!" and people turn it on, it entirely ends up being the end user's fault.