Whether you love them or hate them, you have to admit that Google has done an impressive job cultivating a free market Android app system that is second only to Cupertino’s curated iOS app store.
Unfortunately for Google’s beloved Android , fake, illegal or unethical Android apps are appearing in greater frequency, a trend that will only increase when (not if) Android surpasses Apple in the number of available apps.
After the wall paper scare, Google can not afford to risk the reputation of its mobile OS, especially with the media already shooting down the search engine giant every time something evil happens.
In order to ease the fears of users downloading apps, Google may want to establish a review team to verify Android apps that are safe to use for the end consumer.
Since Googlers would probably loathe scrolling through the code of every app, they could partner with a third party organization whose job would be to investigate apps for flaws, security threats, and questionable code (i.e. why is a wall paper app accessing contact data, etc.).
Android apps verified for their safety could be given Google’s blessing with a special seal alerting customers that the app has been verified as a secure app for everyone (i.e. safe), removing another obstacle for iLovers looking to make the switch.
Google could also use this method as a way to promote quality apps without resorting to Apple’s tribunal process, allowing the search engine giant to enjoy the best of both worlds (i.e. curated and free market).
Hopefully Google decides to implement this before the rumored Verizon iPhone arrives, as it could help the company leverage developer mind share away from Steve Job’s iron grip.
Originally posted on August 16, 2010 @ 1:20 pm
I believe its imperative that Google have apps scan and marked as safe and/or clearing indicate in detail what info the apps is accessing and sending out. We need some basis to know its safe and not violation our privacy in any way. There is know way we can detect whether its operating securely and the fact that is vaguely list what it may do asking our permission is not factual. Many apps appear to want network and other permission without and valid reason. they are never document and cannot be trusted. I recently got an HTC Desire and a LG Shine and have no more than 3 add on not preinstalled since the ones I have looked at appear risky. I cannot use the smartphone to its full potential so I might as well have a locked down dumbphone as built by the OEM.