
Google Reverses Course: Nextcloud Files App Permissions Restored!
2025-05-17
Author: Mei
In a surprising and heartwarming twist, Google has decided to restore crucial permissions for the Nextcloud Files app on Android, a move that many are applauding!
Andy Schertzinger, Director of Engineering at Nextcloud, shared the good news with The Register, stating, "Google has decided to restore the permissions to our Android app, allowing us to bring back full file syncing functionality." This update is keenly anticipated, and Schertzinger expressed gratitude towards the community for their unwavering support during this trying time.
What Went Wrong?
The trouble began in late 2024 when Google revoked the app's "All files access" permission, a critical feature for a file synchronization tool. While Google aims to uphold user privacy by encouraging developers to adopt more privacy-centric solutions like the Storage Access Framework (SAF), this restriction hampered Nextcloud's functionality, effectively crippling the app in the Play Store.
For years, the app enjoyed seamless access until this sudden revocation left it at a standstill, and repeated requests for clarification from Google fell on deaf ears.
A Turn of Events!
After going public with their struggles earlier this week, Nextcloud's plea reached the right ears. In an unexpected about-face, Google has now agreed to restore the necessary permissions.
This development raises questions about the processes within Google. Was the revocation a botched automated decision or an overly stringent manual review? As of now, the tech giant has yet to clarify.
A Sign of Hope?
As we witness this narrative unfold, many hope it signals a shift towards greater attentiveness from tech giants to user needs. However, for those desiring a halt to the aggressive push for AI technologies, it may be wise to temper expectations.
In a landscape where companies often face scrutiny over their competitive practices, Google's willingness to admit a misstep is a breath of fresh air—proving that even tech behemoths can be responsive when it genuinely matters.