Google is repeatedly criticized for its actions. The market power of individual services such as YouTube is forcing smartphone providers into contracts with Google. That is why almost all Android cell phones in western markets are equipped with Google apps and Google services.
The manufacturers have no alternative. Privacy advocates don’t like that. Just as little as cartel guards. But apart from consumption, there are really good reasons for Google’s access to our cell phones.
Google services make it possible for the group to install new functions on all compatible devices via updates. Most recently, during the pandemic, several billion Android smartphones were equipped with contact tracing functions at the touch of a button. Not only was it pretty quick, but it was also compatible with all Android phones that had at least version 6 installed.
Google for Android: Special times call for quick action
Another popular case emerges during the conflict in Ukraine. Google was able to react within a few days and is delivering a function to Ukrainian Android phones via Google services that enable the air raid alarm. “This work complements the country’s existing air raid warning systems and is based on alerts already submitted by the Ukrainian government.”
In both cases, Google can add new functions to all devices with installed Google services in a few days. This does not require cooperation with the manufacturers of the devices, who therefore do not have to work on their own updates. That wouldn’t be possible if there were only Android manufacturers like Amazon or Huawei, each doing their own thing and using Android in the open-source version.