Apple's business model doesn't rely on storing personal information, they get their money from devices and apps and services made for those devices sold through their store.
They are the one company that has the ability to really push for user privacy, it's a route Google cannot follow - it would hurt their core business (advertising) too much.
They are the one company that has the ability to really push for user privacy, it's a route Google cannot follow - it would hurt their core business (advertising) too much.
On the other hand, Google needs their users to trust them. If they walk away from Google services, Google loses.
If Apple on the other hand, loses an iCloud customer, their lock-in is reduced, but probably the user will continue to use their Apple devices.
In the end, paid services are probably the best for users who want privacy, etc. Losing trust immediately results in a loss of income. But since the user is paying, they don't have to use and link user data for advertisement or sell the data to third parties.
> On the other hand, Google needs their users to trust them. If they walk away from Google services, Google loses.
Google has dominance in search, webmail, maps, and a very strong mobile presence with Android.
Even if you don't trust Google, it's hard to avoid using their services - they're so good, they have few competitors worthy of note (e.g. Apple Maps or Bing).
They are the one company that has the ability to really push for user privacy, it's a route Google cannot follow - it would hurt their core business (advertising) too much.