For those who didn't know, Google will soon push a nonconsentual update to ALL Android devices (likely including Samsung phones as well) that requires all app developers to:

pay a fee to Google

agree to Google's ToS

list all current and future app identifiers

provide evidence of a private signing key

submit a government ID to Google

The dangers of this include:

The destruction of all alternative app stores, including F-Droid

No privacy for developers and higher barrier to entry for development

Giving Google total control over what software you can install on YOUR device.

All internal betas, first apps, privacy tools, etc. will go through Google's systems.

Google will likely comply with all government requests for app removals.

The sole bypass can be removed at any time by Google with no OS updates.

Censorship, plain and simple.

Removal of the freedom that caused people to use Android in the first place.

So what can I do?

First, reblog this post. Tag at will.

Second, go to https://keepandroidopen.org/ and follow their instructions to voice your concerns.

Third, spread the word and build up opposition. Even if they lock it down, keep fighting.

Fourth, NEVER COMPLY. Don't verify, avoid the update if possible, and generally make implementation hell for Google.