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There is spin in this analysis. Apple and Google have a huge amount of power when it comes to what capabilities they allow apps to use on their device. So when

There is spin in this analysis. Apple and Google have a huge amount of power when it comes to what capabilities they allow apps to use on their device. So when the article mentions “sovereign power” and “unbending stance”, it is referring to that. It is impossible for a user to run an app that collects tracing and location data in the background given the restrictions the OS puts in place. This definitely is better from a privacy standpoint, but it is these companies making the call that it’s better for society. Google and Apple are the ones that decide what data is collected and who it is shared with. It is pretty remarkable how much faith we must have in them.

joshuamorton 6y ago
> Google and Apple are the ones that decide what data is collected and who it is shared with. It is pretty remarkable how much faith we must have in them. No, Google and Apple are one of a number of entities that have the ability to put a maximum on the data shared. Governments are free to pass laws that limit data collection and sharing (and some have!), and individual organizations are free to limit their collection and sharing. To an extent, individuals are also free to limit what data is collected about them, though I'll grant that this is difficult for many users. Do you really want to go the route of compelling Apple or Google to collect data on behalf of a government?