cross-posted from: https://lemmy.ml/post/198544

While it has been argued that the choice of smartphone architecture might protect user privacy, no clear winner between iOS and Android emerges from our analysis.

  • foxglove@lemmy.ml
    9·
    3 years ago

    This is a study of 24,000 Android and iOS apps and looks at tracking in particular. The authors conclude that neither platform is better than the other. What I felt was missing from the analysis was just and overall comparison of anti-tracking features in both Android and iOS. I think that’s more important (especially since privacy is not the default in most cases and requires user intervention) and would love to see some information on that if anyone has any.

    • AgreeableLandscape@lemmy.ml
      9·
      3 years ago

      Android, especially AOSP ROMs, can be rooted, at which point it will let you configure the HOSTS file to sinkhole tracking domains. iOS can’t do that, the best you can do is use a VPN or DNS server that blocks trackers.

      Also, iOS has no equivalent to F-Droid and other FLOSS app store alternatives.

    • greensand@lemmy.ml
      4·
      3 years ago

      Yes, Google and Apple each have their own preferences in breaching the user’s privacy. Like, Google loves targeted ads while Apple wishes to know your location whenever