Nextcloud Slams Android Permissions as Google ‘Gatekeeping’
▼ Summary
– Nextcloud is a self-hosted cloud platform offering services like file storage and video chat, positioning itself as a Google Workspace alternative.
– Since mid-2024, Nextcloud claims Google has blocked its Android app from uploading non-media files, limiting functionality.
– Nextcloud states its Android app previously had full file access but was suddenly restricted by Google in September 2024 without clear justification.
– Nextcloud alleges Google provided only generic responses to its appeals, leaving the issue unresolved.
– Ars Technica reached out to Google for comment but received no immediate response, and Nextcloud had no updates on the situation.
Nextcloud, the popular self-hosted cloud platform, has publicly criticized Google for restricting its Android app’s functionality. The company argues these limitations undermine its core mission of giving users complete control over their data.
Since mid-2024, Nextcloud’s Android app has faced restrictions preventing it from uploading anything beyond media files. The platform claims Google abruptly revoked broader file access permissions without clear justification, forcing users into a more limited experience. A recent blog post from Nextcloud expressed frustration, stating, “Google deliberately made the Nextcloud Files client worse for all users, and there’s nothing we can do about it.”
Previously, the app had full read-write capabilities for all file types, but an update last September was reportedly rejected without explanation. Google allegedly instructed Nextcloud to use a “more privacy-aware” alternative instead. Despite repeated attempts to clarify the situation, Nextcloud says it only received generic responses from Google, leaving the issue unresolved.
The restrictions significantly impact users who rely on Nextcloud for comprehensive file management, including document syncing and collaborative work—features central to its appeal as a Google Workspace alternative. While Nextcloud continues to push for a resolution, the standoff highlights ongoing tensions between independent platforms and major tech gatekeepers over app store policies.
Google has yet to publicly comment on the matter. Nextcloud confirms there have been no updates regarding the app’s status, leaving users with reduced functionality for the foreseeable future.
(Source: Ars Technica)
