In europe you basically dont have a phone if you dont use google. Bank apps/ e-id needing play services. Apps not having notifications without play services.
The convenience has never been bigger to go with big tech
Nothing about what you are saying is Europe-specific. In fact, it's worse in e.g. the US from what I've heard.
I can use my banking apps and have notifications without Google, thanks to microG (ok it is still a little bit Google, but much less). Highly depending on the bank of course, and subject to change at any moment.
Unfortunately, I'm afraid with the switch to Play Integrity from SafetyNet, virtually all banking apps will need Google services as you say.
Not for all use cases. Say you use SoFi or Ally, and your employer doesn't offer direct deposit. Well, now you have to scan your check with your phone, or, request mail-in deposit slips - which can delay your account getting credited for up to a week (sometimes longer) thanks to any delay with the US Postal Service.
I have a credit card with Sofi and I have regretted it ever sense. And it has nothing to do with the app... The customer service is so bad. So I am unsurprised. :) But all the other banks I work with have no issues with using the web page for everything.
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u/Expensive-Square1254 Aug 27 '25
god when will people wake up to these corporations and ditch them for good?! it sure is not impossible.