European "age verification" "app" forcing everyone to use Android or iOS (github.com)

Article summary

The European Union is developing an age verification system that requires the use of Android or iOS devices, which has raised concerns about dependency on American tech giants and exclusion of other operating systems. The system uses Google Play Integrity API and Apple App Attestation for app and device verification. Some argue that this approach is unnecessary and that alternative solutions, such as using national identity providers, could be more effective. The plan has sparked debate about digital sovereignty, privacy, and the potential for censorship.

Main themes

• Age verification
• Digital sovereignty
• Operating system exclusivity
• Privacy concerns
• Censorship
• Dependence on American tech giants

What commenters say

• The EU's age verification system should not force users to rely on specific operating systems, such as Android or iOS, and should instead provide alternative solutions for other platforms.
• The use of Google Play Integrity API and Apple App Attestation creates an unacceptable dependency on American tech giants and undermines digital sovereignty.
• Age verification is not necessary and could be replaced by existing solutions, such as client-side filters, to protect children from accessing restricted content.
• The plan will disproportionately affect users who do not own Android or iOS devices, such as those using Linux or other alternative operating systems, and will create a barrier to accessing online services.
• The system's focus on mobile devices ignores the fact that many people access the internet through other means, such as desktop computers or laptops, and will create unnecessary restrictions.
• The EU's approach to age verification will ultimately lead to a loss of privacy and increased censorship, as it ties real identity to digital identity and creates a system of control.
• Alternative solutions, such as using national identity providers or decentralized systems, could provide more effective and privacy-preserving age verification methods.
• The plan's exclusivity will stifle innovation and competition in the tech industry, as companies will be discouraged from developing new operating systems or platforms that are not compatible with the EU's age verification system.