Mobile phones are no longer optional devices that citizens can do without. The noose is tightening and even in "enlightened" privacy regimes like in Europe, it

Mobile phones are no longer optional devices that citizens can do without. The noose is tightening and even in "enlightened" privacy regimes like in Europe, it slowly but surely becomes impossible to participate in normal activity without using one. Digital identity, access to banking services etc. are all routed through this device. This central role of the mobile is simply incompatible with it being an adtech gadget. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. The geniuses behind regulation and policy making in this space must decide what sort of game they are playing, why are they procrastinating and what the endgame is. I can think of three options going forward: * Draconian restrictions on existing mobile phone platforms so that people really don't have to worry about privacy any more (but this may destroy certain business models) * Funding a true open source mobile (e.g. linux based) as a public good so that people do have a real privacy friendly alternative that provides access to all these services * Provide separate (non-phone) portable digital devices that support for all critical identity or payment functions that citizens cannot opt out from. I should be able to use a feature phone and such a device to accomplish all non-optional digital functions. The bottom line is that the digitization of public sector / government / medical / financial services is now in full swing across the globe. The current arrangement is simply not fit for purpose.