[II2II]

I suspect there are various reasons why advertising is accepted on mobile platforms and not on desktop operating systems.

One could simply be a difference in the user base. I am fairly certain those who object to advertising on desktop operating systems also object to it on mobile platforms, but there is a large number of people who use mobile devices who rarely use traditional computers.

Another difference is intended use. Mobile devices are largely intended for media consumption, much as televisions, broadcast radio receivers, and newspapers/magazines. These are markets where advertising has been accepted for decades. Traditional computers are more likely to be used for productivity, where advertising has never been widely accepted.

There is also the nature of the software itself. Software on mobile devices have a lower perceived value since it offers less value (at least in terms of features). The publishers of the software desire some means of generating revenue, so consumers have not been left with much of an option.

[KMnO4]

One reason I’m opposed to adware on desktop is because it often leaks into the entire computer. If I install FileZilla and is has ads only in the application, I would probably consider that acceptable.

But instead, ads show up in my web browser, pop up from the systray, add themselves as shortcuts in my file manager, etc. It’s the definition of malware.

I use iOS which is mostly immune to this, but I know showing notification ads on Android while the app is closed is met with the same amount of criticism.

[kergonath]

How are notification ads even a thing? Showing ads whilst I am trying to use the app is bad enough (particularly these full-screen ones that you can dismiss if you tap the tiny black cross on a grey background that shows up after 10 seconds), but actually interrupting me with a notification when I’m doing something entirely unrelated is a whole other level. I’m glad I never came across one of those.

[II2II]

> One reason I’m opposed to adware on desktop is because it often leaks into the entire computer.

That's a valid point.

> I know showing notification ads on Android while the app is closed is met with the same amount of criticism.

Is that even a thing these days? I seem to recall Google making changes to the notification system a few releases back that should have addressed that. Then again, I usually stick to apps distributed via F-Droid so I don't know what the typical user has to deal with.