The APK is a foundational file type for us here at AnimalTrakker®. It’s a cornerstone of our Farm Mobile system, which runs on Android devices. We need Android compatibility to keep AnimalTrakker® portable and accessible for field use.
Currently, Android is a platform where any individual can configure and develop applications. However, Google’s proposed changes will essentially close the Android platform. If this becomes reality, all Android developers will be required to register their names, IDs, and more with Google. They’ll have to bow to Google’s terms and conditions and even pay fees. These new rules put developers squarely in the palm of Google’s hand.
Unless Google changes its stance, starting in September of this year, Android will require all apps to be submitted by verified developers to work on Android devices.
Needless to say, we at AnimalTrakker® are not verified developers. We’re a small group of individuals creating an open-source product to fill a niche in the livestock industry. This change, if it goes through, will negatively impact us.
We’re big proponents of open source philosophy here, and all of our software is available for download and modification by anyone. Many consumers invest in Android devices specifically because Android is a free and open platform. If you agree with us and want to urge Google to reverse its decision, here are a few things you can do:
- Sign the Change.org petition
- If you’re a developer, do not sign up for Google’s early access development program or the Android Developer Console, and tell those you know to do the same
- If you own a website, add this countdown banner to it
- Contact your leaders and/or regulatory bodies to express your concerns
You can learn more about this issue (and what you can do to fix it) at keepandroidopen.org.