In this real-life case study, the author recounts their experience with a legacy Android app that required an update due to a new requirement from Google. Despite minimal changes and a tight deadline, the update process seemed to be going smoothly until users started experiencing crashes, particularly on the newest Android version. The author details their attempts to roll back the app or create a new release, only to encounter roadblocks due to Google’s restrictions. The frustrating review process further highlights the lack of control developers have in dealing with app issues. The author suggests that the reliance on third-party app stores and the lack of temporary workarounds make developing mobile apps a questionable endeavor, urging a return to open web standards.
https://solutional.ee/blog/2023-08-26-Prisoners-of-Google-Android-Development.html