Android sucks since it lost almost all functionality in the name of security

What were the original advantages of Android compared to iOS before it turned more iOS-like? For advanced users who like more functionality?

Maybe Android Debug Bridge (ADB) as a backup tool? It used to be one - but then they added the ‘App Manifest,’ meaning apps can now block their data from being backed up. Only rooting helps now, as far as I know.

Can you compile a list of specific features you miss? I’m sure the community could help find solutions. I have some apps that I installed to solve issues but rarely use.

Hyperbole. ADB backup is a niche utility. It’s a stretch to say Android has ‘lost almost all functionality.’

Frustrated since Android 12 made accessing android/data harder.

I still regularly manage game files and now need Shizuku just to transfer them.

Corey said:
Frustrated since Android 12 made accessing android/data harder.

I still regularly manage game files and now need Shizuku just to transfer them.

Yup

Android’s direction feels more ‘iOS-like,’ but calling it unusable is hyperbolic. It’s still incredibly flexible and modular at its core.

Whit said:
Android’s direction feels more ‘iOS-like,’ but calling it unusable is hyperbolic. It’s still incredibly flexible and modular at its core.

Yup

Android is more capable now than ever.

Do you remember what it used to be like? You’re focusing on one feature as if it’s the end of the world.

Zyler said:
Android is more capable now than ever.

Do you remember what it used to be like? You’re focusing on one feature as if it’s the end of the world.

ALL IN THE NAME OF SeCuRiTy!!! -OP :sneezing_face:

Zyler said:
Android is more capable now than ever.

Do you remember what it used to be like? You’re focusing on one feature as if it’s the end of the world.

It’s not one feature:

  • Android 4.3: Disabled apps toggling airplane mode
  • Android 6: Removed cache clearing from settings
  • Android 8: Apps can’t enable WiFi in airplane mode; 8.1 requires location on for WiFi
  • Android 10: Restricted android/data and introduced Scoped Storage
  • Android 11: Added Phantom Process Killer
  • Android 12: Removed overscan and WiFi tile
  • Android 14: Complicated automation features
  • Android 15: Complicated sideloading

Security measures prioritize financial interests over user control. Phones now handle financial transactions and must protect user data. This control extends to other apps to protect their own interests.

Google still marginally better than Apple’s vendor lock-in.

Global allowance of app sideloading is critical.

Agreed. Android’s appeal was its PC-like flexibility. Now, with permission restrictions, workflows are harder. For example, comic readers can’t delete comics directly; you have to use a file manager. Similarly, video downloaders can’t save to \Downloads.

On the bright side, One UI + Good Lock + Nova Prime have made UI customization possible without rooting.