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2071 points K0nserv | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.205s | source
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kristov ◴[] No.45092413[source]
I think the conversation needs to change from "can't run software of our choice" to "can't participate in society without an apple or google account". I have been living with a de-googled android phone for a number of years, and it is getting harder and harder, while at the same time operating without certain "apps" is becoming more difficult.

For example, by bank (abn amro) still allows online banking on desktop via a physical auth device, but they are actively pushing for login only via their app. I called their support line for a lost card, and had to go through to second level support because I didn't have the app. If they get their way, eventually an apple or google account will be mandatory to have a bank account with them.

My kid goes to a school that outsourced all communication via an app. They have a web version, but it's barely usable. The app doesn't run without certain google libs installed. Again, to participate in school communication about my kid effectively requires an apple or google account.

I feel like the conversation we should be having is that we are sleepwalking into a world where to participate in society you must have an account with either apple or google. If you decide you don't want a relationship with either of those companies you will be extremely disadvantaged.

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ivanmontillam ◴[] No.45092781[source]
If you live outside the US, it's even worse with WhatsApp.

If for whatever reason you dislike WhatsApp, you just can't also be a society's functioning member.

Some companies have decided to deprecate email and phone support and only have a WhatsApp chat, potentially with AI slop. I've had to discontinue my services with some of these companies because of that.

Even some government services are going through WhatsApp; I've had to be there in person, among senior citizens just because of their tech choices.

I pretty much vouch for "vote with your wallet," but I am running out of alternatives.

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1. ahdanggit ◴[] No.45093091[source]
In the Philippines everyone uses Facebook because you can use Messenger for free without data charges.