Googles attempt at intercepting all text messages.

It’s supposed to be SMS 2.0 but only google took it serious and it’s only supported by Google. Most carriers that do support it are using Googles Jibe system, they’ve now pressured apple into using it as well. Likely tied to the many billions they pay apple every year.

Google doesn’t let anyone else make a RCS app except them and Samsung. So you can’t get a free and open messenger with it.

The worst is many of these apps are just websites repackaged as apps. They just want the elevated access being an app gives them.

Android apps are much more likely to ask for permission. There is very little moderation involved on the all store. Apps asking for unnecessary permission is very common.

Default iOS is leagues ahead of android in regards to privacy and security. Massively so.

You need to install a third party OS to get something comparable on Android. Those are mainly limited to Pixels phones made by an advertising company for the purpose of generating more advertising opportunities.