Another example of why this trend of "simplification" in software is really disturbing.
core idea here — making Android app permissions comprehensible to normal users — is good.
What sort of "normal users" didn't understand the previous system!? What sort of "normal users" wouldn't know the difference between e.g. sending and receiving SMS, or the camera and microphone?
Instead of making software for idiot users, how about expecting them to have a little knowledge and be able to find more? It's even funnier when you realise this change is coming from Google, who runs services that almost everyone uses to find information. In general the big effect this change has is people will know less about what the software on their device is doing, and also be less inclined to ask questions about it --- because details are replaced with vagueness, they won't know what to ask. This also gives power to Google and the app developers to make privacy-disrupting changes without the users knowing. Taking away control and detailed information is the perfect way to minimise dissent in your userbase and have them think and do what you want them to.
Under this sugar-coated guise of "simplification", "convenience", "minimalism", etc., users are gradually being converted from individuals with the power to make their own decisions, to consumers who are complacent followers not knowledgable enough to revolt. The simplest life, where others in power make all your decisions for you, is one of complete submissiveness. My reaction to this can be summed up in 3 words: Do not want.
On the one hand, I have nearly written this exact thing before. On the other hand, I've heard many people whine about the relative complexity of Android, on many levels.
What's funny is that I'm completely at loss at the new system. All of the permission are either so broad that they could mean anything, or so intrusive that all available apps now basically spy on my entire life.
If I can't understand their scope, I have no idea how the metaphorical average user will.
core idea here — making Android app permissions comprehensible to normal users — is good.
What sort of "normal users" didn't understand the previous system!? What sort of "normal users" wouldn't know the difference between e.g. sending and receiving SMS, or the camera and microphone?
Instead of making software for idiot users, how about expecting them to have a little knowledge and be able to find more? It's even funnier when you realise this change is coming from Google, who runs services that almost everyone uses to find information. In general the big effect this change has is people will know less about what the software on their device is doing, and also be less inclined to ask questions about it --- because details are replaced with vagueness, they won't know what to ask. This also gives power to Google and the app developers to make privacy-disrupting changes without the users knowing. Taking away control and detailed information is the perfect way to minimise dissent in your userbase and have them think and do what you want them to.
Under this sugar-coated guise of "simplification", "convenience", "minimalism", etc., users are gradually being converted from individuals with the power to make their own decisions, to consumers who are complacent followers not knowledgable enough to revolt. The simplest life, where others in power make all your decisions for you, is one of complete submissiveness. My reaction to this can be summed up in 3 words: Do not want.