[cptskippy]

With Apple's devices, and to a lesser extent Google's, there isn't a software distribution channel apart from the one sanctioned from up high.

That being said, the official channels are sanctioned and sponsored by Apple (or Google) and so it is their reputation on the line when it comes to malicious or questionable Apps.

So I can completely understand Apple (or Google) removing certs or banning companies for violating the terms of their platform.

And I think this exertion of power might be a bad thing as it demonstrates that users do not really own their devices and are only allowed to do with them what Apple (or Google) permits.

[hnnh44]

I disagree with your argument as a whole.

My device is little more to me than something to run a web browser. I despise native apps. Facebook and Googles apps can - and should IMO - be run from a browser without crossing over into my personal contacts and photos.

Apple has zero authority over who I contact or what content I access over the web.

With any luck, this drives development back towards the web. I haven't had Facebook on my phone in years because their mobile layout is unbearable and their apps are invasive.

[cptskippy]

What are you disagreeing with? I didn't make an argument, I stated some facts and gave an opinion of the consequences of those actions.

[hnnh44]

> there isn't a software distribution channel apart from the one sanctioned from up high.

I'm disagreeing with the premise that you have to develop for their platforms and distribute for it. That's not a fact. That's an opinion. While there may be some apps that _couldnt_ operate on the web, 99% of apps don't fall into this.

Facebook. Instagram. WhatsApp. Gmail. Google maps. Pinterest. These can all be done in a mobile friendly way in browser. They're intentionally not done because of "performance" and the fact that apps want deeper access to the device.

I don't want any or those apps getting access to my GPS. Or my files. Or my contacts. Id rather take additional steps to upload a picture, or type in my "from" address rather than auto-GPS.

[cptskippy]

I was speaking in specifically about native applications and not Web Browser based applications. Taking what I said out of context to get on your soap box and expose the dangers native applications is disingenuous and doesn't add credence to your opinion.

You're setting your argument up for failure before you even present it when it's foundation is a clear and intentional misinterpretation of someone else's words.

[hnnh44]

Again, I disagree. You're beginning with the assumption that native is the only, and best solution. As a user, this is simply not true. You may _prefer_ to develop for native, but that doesn't mean its the best choice for the user.

Very, very few apps need to be developed natively.

The vast, vast majority would be better if developed for the browser.

This obviously depends on exactly what you're talking about, I concede there are some specific applications that require it. Maybe _your_ specific app requires in, in which case, _you_ have to live with the trade-off of the gatekeepers.

Mostly, it's a self imposed prison.

[cptskippy]

> You're beginning with the assumption that native is the only, and best solution.

I never said anything of the sort, you're again manipulating what was said to give you an opportunity to stand on your soap box. I said Apple and Google control the distribution channel and have an interest in protecting it.

Web Apps are at a distinct disadvantage on both platforms because Apple and Google control the channel to dissuade them from reaching mass adoption.

If anything I said that these actions might actually help Web Apps.

[saagarjha]

> I despise native apps.

Why?

[hnnh44]

Drains batteries. Consumes storage space. Requests unnecessary access to my personal files and contacts. Difficult to shut down. Push notifications. I want NONE of this.

The last straw for me was when Facebook messenger pocket dialed a "friend" I hadn't talked to in 7 years. Not only was it something I had no use for, it was outright invasive.

[saagarjha]

Nice apps don't do this. You don't have to install the bad ones?

[hnnh44]

I don't have to install any :)