[mcpackieh]

> Tell your legislators that Google [...] need to open up to web installs.

You're getting your talking points crossed. Google's Android permits you to install apps from third party sources, and in fact permits the operation of third party appstores. What you mention is a problem with Apple, not Google. This capability isn't just academic, I install most of my apps from F-Droid and use Play Store for only 3 or 4 apps.

And what would you have legislators do in this case? Scold Google for respecting the laws of other countries by choosing not to distribute apps which violate those laws in those countries (but continuing to sell the app in any country in which it isn't banned)? If this guy wants to sell an app in Saudi Arabia, he should make an app that's legal in Saudi Arabia, or distribute it himself if he wants to flaunt those laws. There is no rational, moral or legal obligation for Google to flaunt Saudi Arabian laws on his behalf.