"F-Droid warns that the project will end if Google is allowed to seize control of the entire Android software ecosystem by way of its developer verification program. In addition to gathering personal information from devs, F-Droid says Google will be demanding registration fees from independent developers, many of whom give their apps away for free and would be uninterested in paying Google for the privilege."
"So what's the solution? In the blog post, Google is accused of using security as a mask for what is really an attempt to consolidate monopoly power over app distribution at a time when its power is being suppressed by antitrust actions. F-Droid is calling on regulators from the US and EU to take a close look at Google's plans before it's too late."
F-Droid warns the project could end if Google gains control of the Android software ecosystem through a developer verification program. Google plans to collect personal information from developers and appears to ask if developers can pay registration fees in US dollars, implying costs for independent and free app authors. The verification system lacks public detail, but early access prompts indicate a fee. F-Droid asserts device owners must be able to choose their software and calls mandatory central registration an affront to free speech. F-Droid accuses Google of using security rationales to consolidate app-distribution monopoly and urges US and EU regulators to investigate.
Read at Ars Technica
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