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Google bans Podcast Addict app over non-approved Covid-19 content

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1525 points garyclarke27 | 4 comments | 18 May 20 07:37 UTC | HN request time: 0.778s | source
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fjcp ◴[18 May 20 13:14 UTC] No.23221881[source]▶
I use Podcast Addict every day, I would even say that is my most used app on android. I work listening to podcasts and PA is the best app for those who like highly customizable software. You can change almost everything.

Its sad that we are in a situation where a company can dictate what we can install on our computers/smartphones. I know we can sideload apps on android, but the majority of users doesn't care about this and just give away its freedom to really own the device in exchange for the easiest way to operate it. And every day we walk towards lesser control of our property and more dependency of those companies.

Another problem is that developers can, without notice, be locked out of their incomes for whatever reason without ways to properly appeal. Those who can, we should consider supporting the developer Xavier Guillemane on Patreon, at least until this situation gets resolved. The amount of work he put on the app, its probably his main source of income and I wouldn't like if he need to abandon the app development due to this. The lowest tier is just $1.

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1. ngngngng ◴[18 May 20 14:49 UTC] No.23223029[source]▶
> dictate what we can install on our computers/smartphones

Can they though? Android does not make it difficult at all to install apps through stores other than their own Play Store. A quick internet search reveals that there are at least a dozen other options for users to download apps to Android phones.

I agree that a devices OS should allow alternative means to install apps, but Android has clearly done this.

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2. fjcp ◴[18 May 20 16:25 UTC] No.23224529[source]▶
I agree with you on that, Android is far less hostile to installing software outside of the store than iOS.

The problem is, if the developer wants its software to reach the wide audience of the platform, its a obvious choice for him to use what the users perceive as the "official way" of installing software. Sure, you can offer both ways, but if your app is missing from the official store, the majority of users won't even know it exists.

IMHO we, as users and developers, have our share of the blame for problems like this one, and we should be vigilant so Android doesn't become like iOS.

3. Sevaris ◴[18 May 20 17:06 UTC] No.23225145[source]▶
The other side of this is that app developers are screwed when it comes to compensation. Providing the ability to sideload doesn't mean anything if developers can't be compensated and can't continue developing their app (as I don't expect them to if they aren't in any way rewarded for it financially).
4. searchableguy ◴[19 May 20 03:46 UTC] No.23231115[source]▶
Alternative stores don't have the same access as play store. They can't have auto-updates.