Remember the days when Android felt like a wide-open field of possibilities? You could tinker, customize, and explore almost anything with your device. However, recent changes suggest that the landscape might be shrinking.
While Android’s core remains open-source, giving manufacturers flexibility, key areas are becoming increasingly “walled off” by Google. This tighter control, exemplified by the recent blocking of RCS messages on modified devices, raises questions about the platform’s future openness.
So, what happened with RCS? This messaging standard, intended as the successor to SMS, is not owned by Google. Yet, its functionality gets blocked on Android devices that have been “rooted” or had their bootloader unlocked, common practices for tech enthusiasts seeking more control. Even though other messaging apps like WhatsApp work fine, Google has decided to restrict RCS access in its Messages app on these modified devices.
Google claims this decision is driven by a desire to combat spam, and misuse, and ensure device security. While these are valid concerns, they leave a bitter taste for users who enjoyed the open tinkering spirit of the early “pure Android” days. The message seems clear: modify your device at your peril, even if it affects seemingly innocuous features like messaging.
This shift towards a more controlled environment might have its benefits, but it also raises questions about user freedom and the future of Android’s openness. While casual users might not be directly impacted, the message is clear: the days of complete freedom on Android might be fading away.
